My Day

On the run with cancer

What happens when cancer strikes a young, active marathon runner? Follow Scott Capozza along his inspirational journey from a testicular cancer diagnosis to trying out for the Boston Marathon.

Professor Moro’s carrot soup

This simple carrot soup will help if you suffer from diarrhoea or vomiting, or experience dry mouth.

Will my cancer return?

Cancer can sometimes return after treatment; this is known as “recurrence”. Why might this happen? What are the chances that this will happen to you? You can always speak to your doctor, who will be able to provide more information and answer your questions.

Other people feel the way you do

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, you may be feeling all kinds of emotions; you may feel anxious, frightened, sad, or lonely. This is perfectly normal, and it may help you to know that other people with cancer feel the same way.

The breast cancer symposium

Sabine Wernars tells how, after losing her job following cancer, she decided to organise a symposium specifically for people with breast cancer. The aim is to pass on knowledge, mostly from other breast cancer patients, to provide answers, tips, and a sense of belonging.

How to cook seafood rice

Join our home chef as she prepares a delicious rice dish with seafood and fresh herbs.

Should I take part in a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a scientific trial during which new drugs or procedures are tested on patients. The trial may aim to test new treatments, improve existing treatments, or minimise side effects. But how do you know whether a clinical trial is right for you?

What is a survivorship plan?

A survivorship plan is all about your journey forward. It is about how you want to live, and should help you get the most out of your life. Join Sangeeta Agarawal, an oncology nurse, as she talks about the importance of your survivorship plan.

Osso bucco

This Mediterranean-style stew is easy to digest. The garlic in this recipe may help reduce your risk of infection.

Mediterranean chicken dish

This flavourful Mediterranean chicken dish is especially helpful if you suffer from constipation.

Almond custard

This creamy almond custard is a great dessert if you have a dry mouth.

Cancer recurrence

Karen Kinahan, a clinical nurse specialist, talks about cancer recurrence. She explains that is possible for cancer to recur after a period of time, and that it can come back either in the same spot as the original cancer or in a new area.

Mediterranean chicken dish

Perk up your taste buds with this flavourful Mediterranean chicken dish. Tune in to see step-by-step instructions for this delicious dinner recipe.

Dealing with the emotions of cancer

The cancer journey, from diagnosis onwards, is an emotionally difficult time. In this video, psychiatric oncologist Dr Wendy Baer gives tips for coping with the emotions you may experience when you have cancer.

Wig and cap styling

Hair loss during cancer treatment may be a source of stress.¹ There are many alternative head-covering options available, including wigs and scarves.^2,3 This video gives tips on choosing, wearing, and styling a wig, and shows how an elegantly tied scarf can become a chic fashion accessory.

Tips on skincare

Cancer treatments may cause your skin to become dry, itchy and sensitive, and you may develop blemishes on your skin.¹ This video takes you step-by-step through a moisturising routine, and shows you how to use concealer to even out skin tone, giving a smooth finish as a basis for make-up.^2–4

Make-up tutorial

Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy may cause thinning or loss of eyebrows and eyelashes.^1,2 This video provides a step-by-step tutorial, showing you how to redraw natural looking eyebrows and to apply eye make-up to redefine your features and put the sparkle back into your eyes.^3–5

Looking good for men

This video provides skincare tips for men. It includes advice on moisturising and shaving.¹ If your skin has become dry or extra sensitive as a result of chemotherapy or radiotherapy,² simple adjustments such as using an electric razor may help you to look healthier during cancer treatment.^3–5

When cancer affects your work

Sabine’s work as a publisher was central to her life, but she lost her job as a result of her cancer: a second blow on top of her diagnosis. Her advice is to communicate continually and effectively with your employer and ensure that you direct the choices that are made.

Staying active for recovery

Breast cancer survivor Marjolijn van Bruggen describes her passion for her dogs and for dog-training. Gradual resumption of active participation in this hobby played an important role in her recovery process after treatment, helping her to build up her physical strength and her self-confidence.

Relaxation podcast

It is normal to feel anxious before, during, or after treatment for cancer. Relaxation exercises may help lessen this anxiety. Here, you can find a step-by-step guide through relaxation exercises that you can practise once a day, developed by Dame Professor Lesley Fallowfield.

The new normal

Breast cancer survivor Marjolijn van Bruggen and her partner Jeannette Burger describe the impact of the diagnosis and how their lives and relationship have changed, even after completing treatment. Although the fear of recurrence is always there in the background there are also positive effects: they now value every moment together.

Looking towards the future

Cancer patient Silvana van den Noord describes how she wrote her own life script to give her power and focus. She wanted something positive to come out of her experience, so built a food-truck, which gave her energy. She has an arrow tattoo on her arm, to represent looking towards the future.

Vegetable terrine

Take a look at this easy-to-follow video, which shows you how to prepare a delicious terrine chock-full of vegetables!

Curd cheese soufflé with fruit purée

Try this fresh curd cheese soufflé to help ease your constipation.

Vegetable roll

Try this easy-to-prepare vegetable roll if you suffer from mucositis or stomatitis.

Questions people might ask you

When you share news of your cancer diagnosis with friends, family and colleagues, reactions will vary from person to person. Prepare yourself for the most common questions somebody might have about your cancer. Let them know if their reactions upset you, and welcome their offers of help.

Lebanese tabbouleh salad

This fresh salad with mint, lemon, and pepper is easy to prepare and will help if you are constipated.

Stewed quince and four-apple purée

This delicious fruit puree slips down easily and may help if you have diarrhoea.

How to talk to friends and family

Living with cancer can be overwhelming for your family and friends as well as for you. Most people find it helpful to talk about what is happening. Finding the best way to talk to those close to you about your cancer can help you feel more comfortable together.

Noodle salad with bean sprouts

Watch this video to discover how to prepare a noodle salad with a slight fresh hint of sour apple.

Talking to others about living with and beyond cancer

Both how and when you want to talk to others about living with and beyond cancer is a personal choice. This article discusses when, why, and how to talk to family and friends, gives tips on preparing for these conversations, and talks about sharing difficult news with your children.

Take people with you on your journey

Cancer patient Silvana van den Noord describes connecting with people through her postings on Facebook; her light yet informative posts attracted positive reactions, which gave her energy. She reconnected with old friends, and made new ones, When one of these, Odette, was also treated for cancer they could co-support each other.

Cancer free days

Odette describes how the feeling of being trapped by cancer and of “becoming cancer” inspired her to create the concept of “cancer free days”, on which there would be no talk of her disease and no medical calls, but just time to do what she wanted.

Who can help with pet care?

Your pet is a central part of your life, but caring for a pet during your cancer treatment can bring added stress. You do not have to cope alone. Turn to your friends, family, or vet for help.

Who can help with childcare?

The disruption caused to family life by cancer can mean that you need additional support when it comes to childcare. Help is available if and when you need it.

Telling my family about breast cancer

Male breast cancer survivor Alan Herbert and his adult daughter Lisa talk about their reactions to his diagnosis, and the impact it had on their relationship. Alan describes the diagnosis as “a world-changer”; Lisa’s fear of losing her father and soulmate evolved into a resolve to be there for him.

Questions your children may ask you

Speaking openly and honestly with your child or teenager about your cancer diagnosis is essential. By anticipating the questions they will probably ask, you can better prepare yourself for this conversation.

How to cook a beetroot, goat’s cheese, and chives stack

Learn how to prepare this stunning beetroot dish. This step-by-step video is so easy to follow that you can eat the snack straight away!

Styrian pumpkin soup

Try this pumpkin soup with caraway seeds and parsley if you want to stimulate your appetite or if you suffer from constipation.

Mixed salad

This simple mixed salad is light and tasty, and should tempt you to eat when you are feeling queasy.

What causes cancer?

Many different factors influence your risk of developing cancer. These include the genes you inherit and the lifestyle choices you make.

Is my family at risk of breast cancer?

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, you may be wondering whether that puts your family members more at risk. Breast cancer is usually not hereditary, but sometimes it is. Read on to discover the risk factors for inheriting a gene that causes breast cancer and a discussion of the possibilities of genetic testing to predict whether a family member will develop the disease.

Beetroot, goat's cheese, and chive stack

Apple Gervais

Try this fresh apple dish with lemon, horseradish, and walnuts; it may ease your diarrhoea.

Life after adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer

What are the specific considerations that should be taken into account if you develop adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer? Could it impact your career? Does it impact your lifestyle? Lorraine and Gene Sacco discuss how your primary care physician and your oncologist can work together on the basis of your AYA care plan.

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) programmes

Treatment and survivorship planning for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancers present unique challenges. Lorraine and Gene Sacco talk about the importance of long-term follow-up care and dedicated AYA programmes.

Adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancers

Cancer can strike at any age. Lorraine and Gene Sacco talk about the unique challenges faced by teenagers and young adults diagnosed with cancer.

How to cook carrot and orange soup

Watch this video to put a little more zing in your life! Learn how to prepare a simple and colourful carrot and orange soup.

Cod brandade

Looking for a delicious dip to go with bread or potatoes? This cod brandade is very tasty and the garlic in this recipe may help ward off infections.

Getting the most out of your oncologist

Your oncologist is a very important member of the team providing your medical care. Following these tips for how to talk to your oncologist and what questions to ask will help ensure that you get the most out of your consultation.

Making difficult treatment decisions

Your doctor may suggest different treatment options for your cancer; decisions about cancer treatment can be difficult, complex, and personal. It is important to understand how each treatment works, and which side-effects may occur, so that you can make an informed decision and have an idea how the treatment may affect your daily life.

Salmon steak in foil

This salmon with dill and lemon juice is a delicious main course. The garlic in this recipe may help ward off infections.

Potato soup

This easy-to-prepare potato soup can help if you experience dry mouth.

Marinated tofu with herb millet and spinach leaves

Try this dish with marinated tofu and millet is suitable if you have diarrhoea. Moreover, the garlic in this recipe may help ward off infections.

Banana and strawberry smoothie

This simple smoothie is great as either a dessert or snack, and may be especially suitable if you have mucositis or stomatitis.

The Annie Appleseed Project, 3 Steps 4 Health

Getting well can be a slow process, but you can do a little every day on your road to recovery. Ann Fonfa recommends following these 3 simple steps each day.

Talk openly with your nurse and doctor

Opening up to your nurse or doctor can be difficult, uncomfortable, or even confronting. Listen to Ann Fonfa, a patient advocate and cancer survivor, as she talks about speaking frankly to your healthcare team.

Teas

These teas were developed to help ease the side effects of cancer treatment (diarrhoea, loss of appetite, nausea, dry mouth).

Fromage blanc mousse with mango purée

Try this fresh mango dessert if you are feeling nauseous and you can tolerate sweet foods.

Fig, ricotta, and Parma ham bruschetta

Why not try this sweet-and-salty snack? The figs can ease constipation.

Be your own advocate

What is a good way to cope with changes in your life? Scott Capozza, a physical therapist and cancer survivor, recommends that you be your own advocate, ask a lot of questions, and make sure you get the answers you need.

Cod fillet with tomatoes and courgettes

This cod fillet with garlic and basil may help stimulate your appetite if you suffer from appetite loss.

Surviving recurrence

What happens if your cancer comes back while you are in remission? Jean Carroll Criner talks about her recurrence, and how she survived it.

Coping with cancer

Jean Carroll Criner, an ovarian cancer survivor, talks about coping with cancer as a chronic condition.

Why should I take my medication correctly?

If they are to work effectively, medications to treat your cancer and manage the side effects of your treatment must be taken correctly.

Preserve your fertility

Scott Capozza was treated for testicular cancer when he was 22 years old, active, and in graduate school. Having a family was the last thing on his mind. Thankfully, his doctors gave him options to preserve his fertility. Should you think about your fertility? Join Scott as he recounts his experiences.

People in your care team

A survivorship care team should be filled with people with many areas of expertise in order to cover all aspects of your survivorship. Scott Capozza, a US physical therapist, gives his first-hand insights into what type of specialists to expect on your team.

How can I prepare for treatment?

Taking practical steps to prepare for your cancer treatment and recovery can give you a sense of control over your cancer.

Keeping well with cancer

A healthy lifestyle can help you to feel better while you are being treated for cancer. Diet and exercise have a big part to play on the road to recovery, and taking care of your emotional needs is also very important.

Coping with tiredness

Cancer can sometimes cause tiredness, or extreme fatigue. This may be due to the cancer itself or the treatments you are receiving. Although many cancer patients experience tiredness, you do not just have to put up with it: there are things that can be done to relieve its effects.

Liver cancer

Have you been diagnosed with cancer of the liver? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

Gastric cancer

Have you been diagnosed with cancer of the stomach? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

Supportive care explained

What is supportive care and how can it help you? Here, Sangeeta Agarawal, an oncology nurse, talks about the role of supportive care in complementing your cancer therapy and helping you lead a good life.

Find supportive care that is right for you

You may be interested in supportive care such as meditation, acupuncture, or psychological therapy, but how can you discover which therapies are right for you? Join Sangeetha Agarawal as she explains how you and your doctor can look for the best therapies together.

Steps to mindfulness

Mindfulness, a form of meditation, can be very soothing and relaxing. But how does it work and how can you become “mindful”? Jean Carroll Criner portrays her experiences with mindfulness and shares how mindfulness has impacted her life.

Exercise is key

Exercise should be an essential element in your path to wellness. But which exercise is right for you? How long should you exercise? And should you be exercising if you feel unable to do so? Jean Carroll Criner, a retired nurse and cancer survivor, tackles all these issues.

Be the leader of your team

Part 5 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series.

You are the most important person in your care team. You have the right to ask questions, get a second opinion, and bring in any additional resources you consider necessary.

Connect with support groups

Part 3 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series.

Support groups can be a great outlet for your feelings and to discuss your experiences. But the idea of joining one can be intimidating at first. The most important step, according to Cynthia Chauhan, is simply getting through the door.

You are not alone

Part 2 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series.

Are you feeling isolated or alone? Are you having trouble relating to others or processing emotions at this challenging time? Join Cynthia Chauhan as she talks about people who are going through similar emotions to those you are experiencing.

I am not a diagnosis

Part 1 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series. Being diagnosed with cancer can be a turbulent experience, and undergoing treatment for your cancer is challenging. You are so much more than a diagnosis. Do not lose sight of yourself!

Colorectal cancer

Have you been diagnosed with cancer of the colon or rectum? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

What to bring to my doctor's appointment

Part 7 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series.

You may have a lot of questions for your doctor and may have found some interesting online articles. Cynthia Chauhan advises some great ideas on how to bring these to your next doctor’s appointment.

How do I want to die?

Part 11 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series.

End-of-life issues are difficult to think about. “But everybody has their own ideal death. The important thing is thinking about it and owning it for yourself and making sure other people who are going to be part of the decision making know what your wishes are.”

Facing your mortality

Part 10 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series.

“One of the things that cancer does dramatically is makes us face our own mortality. It tells us that we are not invincible and it tells us that in a very shocking, painful way.” Join Cynthia Chauhan as she talks about coming to terms with her mortality.

Family and your cancer journey

Part 9 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series.

Our families can provide tremendous support, but not every family member will understand what you are experiencing and others might themselves be scared. There will always be someone there to help; you just need to discover who that is.

Breast cancer

Have you been diagnosed with breast cancer? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

Bladder cancer

Have you been diagnosed with bladder cancer? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

What to expect from your care team

Part 6 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series.

Many different people will be involved in your care. Listen as Cynthia discusses strategies to get the most out of your care team.

Wholewheat spaghetti with vegetable pasta sauce

This wholewheat spaghetti with vegetable pasta sauce is easy to eat even if you have a dry mouth.

Vegetable risotto

This easy-to-prepare vegetable risotto may help ease diarrhoea symptoms.

Tuna salad

This healthy, refreshing tuna salad with parsley and yoghurt may be easy to eat if you have a dry mouth.

Thyme and lardon madeleines

Try these savoury madeleines as a starter or as a snack; they may help ease diarrhoea.

Sundried tomato, feta, and basil cake

This savoury cake with sun-dried tomatoes and feta should tempt your appetite, even if you find it hard to keep food down.

Strawberry bake

This delicious strawberry bake may stimulate your taste buds if you have lost your appetite.

Spinach casserole

This spinach casserole with ham, potatoes, and mozzarella is recommended if you suffer from mucositis or stomatitis.

Breast cancer infographic

The structure of the breast is illustrated in this infographic, showing the possible location of a tumour. It also describes types of breast cancer, risk factors, therapy, and prognosis.

Lymphoma infographic

The lymphatic system, an important part of the immune system, is illustrated and explained in this infographic. It also describes the development of lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that starts in the cells of the lymphatic system.

Ovarian cancer infographic

This infographic illustrates the structure of the ovary, showing where a tumour might develop. It also presents some important facts and information about ovarian cancer: risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

Spaghetti with courgette and basil sauce

Try this spaghetti with basil if you experience dry mouth.

Scrambled eggs with vegetables

These scrambled eggs with vegetables are a perfect breakfast if you suffer from nausea or loss of appetite.

Salsify cocktail

Try this salsify cocktail with ham and lemon juice if you suffer from constipation or need to increase your appetite.

Rice with turkey

Try this rice with turkey if you suffer from diarrhoea; the caraway seeds may also stimulate your appetite if you experience appetite loss.

Redcurrant tart

The tanginess of the redcurrants in this delicious dessert might be just what you need if you are suffering from nausea.

Please note: the redcurrants should be prepared a day in advance.

Pumpkin casserole

This pumpkin casserole with beef and crème fraîche is easy to eat, even if you have a dry mouth.

Provençal cod

Looking for a low-calorie main course? Try this Provençal cod with lots of fresh herbs and spices. It may help when you are constipated.

Normandy rice pudding

This comforting warm dessert is very soothing; it should help if you are suffering from diarrhoea.

Mushroom and leek soup

Try this quick mushroom and leek soup with thyme if you experience dry mouth.

Mince patties

Try these quick mince patties with marjoram if you have lost your appetite.

Macaroni cheese

Simple, yet delicious: this macaroni cheese with four spices is a real crowd-pleaser, and is suitable if you are suffering from diarrhoea.

Lemon chicken

This fresh chicken with lemon and parsley dish may stimulate your appetite if you find it difficult to enjoy food.

Garlic soup

If you suffer from constipation or dry mouth, you may find this garlic soup to be delicious and helpful.

Fish terrine

A delicious cold main course, which could tempt your appetite if you are feeling nauseous.

Egg dumplings

Enjoy these simple, easy-to-prepare egg dumplings; they may stimulate your appetite.

Cheese and potato patties

Try these cheese and potato patties fresh from the oven if you experience loss of appetite.

Cream of fennel soup with croutons

Enjoy this fennel soup with croutons if you are experiencing mucositis or stomatitis, or have a dry mouth.

Cabbage with pasta

This cabbage and caraway seed pasta may help if you suffer from constipation, nausea, or mucositis and stomatitis.

Breton prune cake

The prunes in this delicious warm dessert are a good source of fibre, which will help ease constipation.

Austrian carrots

The fresh parsley and sweet carrots in this recipe may stimulate your taste buds if you have lost your appetite.

Cancer therapy weakens your system

After cancer treatment, you may feel tired. Helayne Waldman talks about how cancer therapy depletes important nutrients in your body.

How do I get a second opinion?

You have every right to get a second opinion, because you are the most important person in your care team. What factors should you consider before asking, and how can you best prepare for getting a second opinion?

How is cancer treated?

There are many different ways to treat cancer. Here is a brief explanation of the main types of treatment: surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. This article explains a little of what each therapy involves.

How to prepare for your doctor’s visit

Join Karen Kinahan, a clinical nurse specialist, as she talks about preparing for your visit to your doctor. She recommends you write down any questions you may have, and gives tips on how to approach sensitive topics with your care team.

Managing my other conditions, as well as my cancer

You may be suffering from a chronic medical condition alongside your cancer. Many other conditions, from heart disease to depression, can make cancer treatment more challenging.

Referral to a specialist

If you have been referred for tests because your doctor thinks you may have cancer, what can you expect? And how can you prepare for the appointment?

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Have you been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

Educate – empower – embrace

Based on her experience during many years as a clinical nurse specialist and expert in survivorship, Karen Kinahan recommends that people with cancer focus on three things beginning with the letter ‘E’. She recommends you to Educate yourself about treatment, Empower yourself about your disease, and Embrace your survivorship.

Seeing your doctor

You may be worrying that you have cancer and wonder whether you should consult your doctor. Which signs and symptoms may be due to cancer, and when should you consult your doctor about them?

Leukaemia

Have you been diagnosed with leukaemia? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

What is chemotherapy and how does it work?

Chemotherapy works by preventing cancer cells from multiplying. Your doctor will look for the best treatment for you. Here are some questions you might like to ask about chemotherapy and how it will be given.

What side effects can I expect from chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy affects healthy cells as well as cancer cells, which can lead to side effects. It is important for you to recognise these side effects and learn strategies to help cope with them.

Who is my multidisciplinary team?

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, a team of specialists with individual skills will be involved in your care. They will work together to develop the best treatment plan for you. A team involving different professionals is known as a “multidisciplinary team”.

Why do I feel numbness and tingling?

It is common to experience numbness or a tingling sensation, usually in your hands or feet, as you go through your cancer treatment. This is called “peripheral neuropathy”. These effects are often temporary, and there are several ways to help manage any discomfort you may be experiencing.

Coping with feelings of guilt

Guilt is one of the many emotions you may feel when you have cancer; guilt may be experienced by you, by a close friend, or by a family member. There are ways in which you can learn to gradually let go of these feelings and get on with your life.

How to cope when cancer comes back

It is hard to predict whether your cancer will come back. If it does, it may be hard to cope emotionally. A healthy lifestyle and good follow-up care are very important.

Breast cancer family support

Here is Nisha’s very personal story of how she felt when her mum was diagnosed with and treated for breast cancer. She describes being stunned on hearing the news, then feeling helpless and frightened during her mum’s treatment, and talks about how the experience has brought them closer together.

How is cancer diagnosed?

Before making a cancer diagnosis, your doctor will arrange for you to have some tests. These tests may include blood tests, a scan, or a biopsy. The results will provide important information about the nature of your cancer, to help your doctor decide on the best course of treatment for you.

Lung cancer

Have you been diagnosed with lung cancer? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

Life after bowel cancer

Paul, a bowel cancer survivor, talks frankly about life after treatment. He describes the tremendous feeling of relief on being given the all-clear, alongside a mixture of guilt, anxiety, and fear. He talks about side effects and returning to work, and how friendship and his passion for rugby gave him a focus in surviving the cancer journey.

Life after lung cancer

Anne, a lung cancer survivor who was successfully treated 9 years ago, talks about the importance of early diagnosis and self-care. She stresses how important it is to take good care of your body and to have suspicious symptoms investigated immediately.

Oesophageal cancer

Have you been diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

Pancreatic cancer

Have you been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

Ovarian cancer

Have you been diagnosed with ovarian cancer? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.

How can I prepare for my cancer test results?

It is not easy to face the possibility of a cancer diagnosis, but there are steps you can take to help prepare for receiving your test results.

Why is early diagnosis important?

Cancers are diseases of abnormal cell growth and spread. Diagnosing cancer early, before it has grown and spread too much, gives a better chance of successful treatment. Screening can show up a cancer even before you have any symptoms.

Adjusting your diet to manage side effects of chemotherapy

You may find that changing your diet helps you to cope with some of the side effects of chemotherapy, including constipation and diarrhoea. This colourful infographic gives some simple tips on what to eat and what not to eat.

Coping day to day

When you have been diagnosed with cancer, it may be a struggle to deal with the demands of life from day to day. With the right support, there are many ways you can learn to cope with the daily physical and emotional demands of cancer.

Unable to work due to cancer?

You may find it difficult or impossible to continue working because you have cancer. What adjustments should your employer make to help you continue working, and what help and support is available if you have to give up your job?

Managing your bills and bank accounts

Keeping track of bills and bank accounts can be difficult at the best of times, but the unexpected costs of cancer can make this even more challenging. If you are worried about your finances, do look for help before the problems become insurmountable.

What financial support can I get?

Financial worries can be a major additional source of stress if you are diagnosed with cancer. You may be eligible for a range of different benefits and grants to help you cope.

Try meditation to de-stress and boost your energy

Meditation is a process that can calm your mind, make you feel more alert, help you concentrate, and improve your mood. It can be used to relieve some of the symptoms of the cancer itself or of the side effects of cancer treatment. A qualified instructor can help you learn the required techniques.

Personalised nutrition plans

A dietitian may be part of your care team. He or she may even give you a personalised nutrition plan. But what is this and how is it drawn up? Join Helayne Waldman, an oncology nutrition specialist, as she explains.

What to expect from your nutritionist

A dietitian may be an integral part of your care team. But what exactly does he or she contribute to your recovery? Helayne Waldman, an oncology nutrition specialist, talks about how a nutritionist can help rebuild your metabolism and manage risk factors.

Vitamin D

Helayne Waldman, an oncology nutrition specialist talks about steps to consider if you are vitamin D deficient. For example, you should be thinking about not only taking vitamin D but also vitamin K₂.

How can physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy can help relieve physical problems due to cancer or cancer treatment. It can even help improve problems caused many years ago. In this video, physiotherapist Elizabeth Frierson explains how physiotherapy can help to restore independence and improve your quality of life after cancer.

Take charge of your lifestyle

With so many healthcare professionals around you and while undergoing rigorous therapy, you may feel helpless to have any impact on your cancer treatment. However, according to Helayne Waldman, you have much more power than you think; you can have an impact on your own health simply by making healthy lifestyle choices.

How to cook fish couscous

Watch this video for easy-to-follow instructions on how to prepare a delicious fish couscous with plenty of healthy vegetables.

Many paths to wellness

There is so much information available about cancer treatment and managing your care that it is difficult to know which advice to follow. According to Ann Fonfa there are many paths to wellness. You just need to find what works for you.

What happens after treatment?

When you finish your cancer treatment, you will be entering a new phase in the journey, the follow-up phase. During this phase you will see your doctor regularly for health checks. These appointments provide an opportunity to talk about things that are worrying you.

Preparing for end of life

Preparing for the end of your life can be confronting and scary. However, most people take comfort in knowing that things such as estate planning or funeral arrangements are taken care of. Jean Carroll Criner talks about how her end-of-life plan has added security to her vibrant life.

Survivorship begins at diagnosis

Survivorship does not start once active cancer treatment has finished: it should begin the day you are diagnosed with cancer. Lorraine and Gene Sacco talk about important considerations to bring to your oncologist in order to ensure that your survivorship plan is sufficient in the long-run.

Stuffed avocados

Try these stuffed avocados with fresh mint and lemon; they contain plenty of fibre and vitamins and are easy to tolerate if you are feeling queasy.

Fish couscous

Try this easy-to-prepare main course, which is rich in vegetables; the fibre should ease your constipation.

Cancer pain

Cancer pain is not something you have to suffer in silence; relief is available. Medication, specialised treatments, and complementary therapies can help minimise your pain and your pain flare-ups.

Living with and beyond cancer

Your cancer journey starts the moment you are diagnosed and continues beyond treatment. What should you expect from your doctor and from your treatment?  What happens after your treatment ends? And where can you find support throughout your journey?

Lift your mind, body, and spirit with aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a popular complementary therapy that can help you deal with some of your cancer symptoms and treatment side effects. It can help you feel better in general by reducing your stress and anxiety.

Is acupuncture right for me?

Acupuncture, a complementary therapy, might ease certain symptoms of your cancer or side-effects of your cancer therapy. People who use acupuncture have said that it helps them relax and makes them generally feel better.

Planning for end of life

Everyone has to face the end of life. Although you may find it confronting and uncomfortable, there are certain things that can be planned for. Knowing that you have a solid end-of-life plan can allow you and your loved ones to relax and live each day to the fullest.

Managing side effects of chemotherapy with exercise

If you are suffering from the side effects of chemotherapy, including lymphoedema, you might find that regular exercise helps you to feel better. This infographic shows you types of exercise that might help, and gives some practical tips. It also includes a link to your personal activity logbook.

Physical activity logbook

You may find that regular exercise helps you to cope with some of the side effects of chemotherapy. Use this downloadable logbook to note your personal goals, and write down how much exercise you take each day. It is a good idea to bring this along to your doctor’s appointment.

What support group is right for me?

Part 4 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series. Support groups are not all the same. It is important to research a potential support group so you know that it is reputable and can help you. Cynthia Chauhan outlines relevant points to consider when choosing a support group.

Telling my family

Part 8 of 11 from the “Sitting down with Cynthia” series.

One of the first challenges you will face during your cancer journey is telling your loved ones you have cancer. Cynthia Chauhan, a patient advocate and cancer survivor, gives practical tips to help you tell your family and friends.

Going back to work

Returning to work after being treated for cancer can be an important part of getting back into a routine, improving your social life, and providing for your financial needs. But it is important to know when it is the right time to go back and how to do so.

Having the conversation

You might be feeling unsure of how to break the news of your cancer diagnosis to family, friends, and colleagues. Each situation is unique, but there are general strategies you can use to plan and initiate these intimidating conversations.

Questions to ask your employer when you return to work

Being treated for cancer does not automatically mean you must stop working. Even if you take sick leave during your cancer treatment, you may want to return to your job once treatment is completed. Here are some suggestions for questions you may like to ask your employer about returning to work.

Telling my employer

You will probably need to tell your employer about your cancer as you may need to take time off for medical appointments and treatment, or need advice on claiming sickness benefits. Here are some tips for how to conduct what could be a difficult conversation.

Minimise your infection risk

Cancer patients receiving chemotherapy are at increased risk of infection. This infographic shows how you can avoid getting an infection and tells you how to recognise signs and symptoms. It shows the exact temperature that indicates you must contact your doctor immediately.

Experiences of taking part in a clinical trial

Are you considering taking part in a clinical trial? In this video, a number of patients talk about their experiences: their reservations, how they made the decision to take part, the support they received, the importance of honest communication, and their feelings after they had completed the trial.

Minimising infection risk

If you are being treated with chemotherapy you will be extra prone to infections, which can make you very ill indeed. It is extremely important that you try to avoid infections. This article provides some useful practical tips and describes the warning signs that mean you MUST contact your doctor.

How cancer gets a blood supply

This video shows how a tumour gets its own blood supply. The tumour sends chemical signals to a blood vessel, causing new vessels to grow. These bring blood to the tumour to supply it with food and oxygen, and allow cancer cells to spread to other parts of the body.

I am afraid my cancer will come back

Fear of cancer recurrence is completely normal. While nobody can guarantee that your cancer will not return, there are steps you can take to understand and work through your anxieties.

Prostate cancer treatment support

Prostate cancer and treatment can lead to a number of unwelcome effects; you may suffer from fatigue, weight gain, incontinence, and bowel problems and might not be able to have an erection or may become infertile. These problems are discussed in this video, alongside suggestions of where to go for help.

Life after prostate cancer

Tony, a prostate cancer survivor, talks about his gratitude for having survived. Christmas, in particular, is a time when we miss loved ones who are no longer with us, and he is thankful to be with his children and grandchildren at this time.

Prostate cancer infographic

This infographic shows the position of the prostate gland in the male reproductive system and describes the risk factors, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer

Have you been diagnosed with prostate cancer? Find out more about the disease and about where you can go for information and advice.