What if I can’t afford my bill?
There are different financial assistance programs that may be available to assist you with your bill. Some options for assistance include national and local charitable foundations, pharmaceutical co-pay cards, hospital community care programs, and payment plans.
Can I still take supplements?
If you are already taking supplements, we highly recommend that you discuss that up front with your care team. They will determine what you should or shouldn’t take during treatment to make your treatment as safe and effective as possible.
What supplements should I take?
Depending on several factors, certain supplements may be recommended. This will be determined by your provider and/or dietitian. Don’t hesitate to ask if you have questions regarding supplements you are interested in taking.
Should I be worried about weight loss?
Weight loss can be divided into two categories: intentional and unintentional. Intentional weight loss can be a result of someone trying to lose weight through food choices or movement. But often, in cancer treatment, we see unintentional weight loss, or weight loss without someone trying, sometimes due to increased stress. This type of weight loss […]
What foods should I include in my diet?
We encourage food intake that nourishes the body without guilt or shame, practicing flexibility and giving yourself grace when it comes to making food choices. Food is meant to be enjoyed. Treatment may come with side effects that make it difficult to eat or enjoy certain foods. Research encourages us to eat as many plants […]
What foods should I avoid?
Raw/unpasteurized animal products (fish, undercooked meat, unpasteurized milk/cheese, raw eggs, etc.) Food that doesn’t make you feel well after eating. Food that you are allergic to.
Does sugar affect my cancer diagnosis?
Sugar itself is not a cancer-causing substance. A diet routinely high in added sugars from sweetened beverages and foods can contribute to inflammation in the body that may put individuals at an increased risk for developing chronic diseases including cancers. Sugar is found naturally in many foods we consider to be healthy choices, so instead, […]
How do I drink enough water to stay hydrated?
Hydration needs can vary from person to person based on body composition, treatment, activity levels, side effects, and much more. Sweating, fevers, diarrhea or vomiting increase hydration needs. A baseline of 64-80 fluid ounces is usually recommended and this can come from beverages such as water, sports drinks, juice, milk, protein drinks, etc. Also consider […]
My family member doesn’t want to eat, what can I make for them?
It is important to encourage a loved one, instead of pressuring. There may be a variety of reasons someone isn’t interested in eating, including treatment side effects. Sometimes when asked ‘what would you like?’, the question is too large and not specific enough. Try listing a couple of options for them to choose from or […]
Do I need an advance directive?
Like everyone over the age of eighteen, you need a Healthcare Power of Attorney as an absolute minimum. Most people and their families haven’t planned sufficiently for serious illness or incapacity. We tend not to talk to our loved ones about it. And most of us don’t have our wishes spelled out in any formal way. […]
