Fifth Dimension Table of Contents |
IV. Conclusion |
Conclusion
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"... serious illness is a reminder that life is not infinite. Those who respond creatively to a life-threatening illness hear it as a wake-up call, a reminder of how time is short and life is precious. They do what matters most while they can, experience the joys of living and loving, and let the people around them know how much they are loved and appreciated.
To feel embedded in a network of caring at a time of
serious illness is deeply reassuring. The will to live is not the
denial of death. Rather, it is the intensification of life experience
which comes when you realize how finite life is."
David Spiegel, MD
Health professionals today believe that a combination of medical therapy and supportive care offers the best chance to maintain a patient's quality of life. Such comprehensive care addresses a wide range of needs, from relief of the physical symptoms of cancer and cancer therapy to satisfying the craving for intellectual, creative, and spiritual sustenance. Satisfaction of these diverse needs demonstrates the powerful connection between mind and body.
Obtaining relief from pain, nausea, or fatigue, for example, restores a sense of calm. Getting sufficient sleep, appropriate exercise, and good nutrition are energizing. Discussing one's negative feelings candidly with others can diminish their effect. Learning to control blood pressure and heart rate through such means as biofeedback or self-hypnosis can foster a sense of personal power. Exploring one's creative potential can lead to joy and transcendence.
Cancer - because it can impact every aspect of your life, from your faith and the quality of your relationships to your physical being and your career is an assault on your life. Yet, as we have seen with so many of our patients, it need not destroy the quality of your life.
Steps For Improving Your Quality of Life:
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1. Conserve your energy for essential or pleasurable
activities.
2. Work collaboratively with your medical team so that you can get the best possible medical and supportive care.
3. Avoid procrastination.
4. Set realistic, achievable goals.
5. Don't let mistakes debilitate or destroy you. move on.
6. Avoid negative thinking and self-destructive behavior.
7. Make end-of-life decisions, including writing legal and medical wills, and an Advanced Directive.
8. Take control. Even when your prognosis is not good, you still have choices.
9. Try to maintain your hope, endurance, faith, and courage.
10. Seek spiritual guidance from your faith, community, religious or inspirational readings, or other sources.
11. Acknowledge your need for psychological support and seek assistance from a professional counselor, pastor, social worker, or a wise friend or family member.
12. Learn new techniques to promote relaxation, such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation.
13. Engage in pleasurable diversions, such as art, music,
hobbies, social events, and physical activities. 14. Give of yourself to others.
15. Strengthen your relationships by spending more quality time with family members and friends.
16. Recognize the sources of your anger and use techniques
of forgiveness and mindful meditation to move on.
17. Try not to let your illness dominate your life.
18. Be willing to make the necessary compromises as you go through treatment.
We hope that this booklet will help you reach out and take advantage of the many resources available to you.
Remember, You're Not Alone !
Mastery of courage is the challenge.
Quality of Life is the goal!
Ernest H. Rosenbaum, MD
First appeared July 10, 2005; updated November 2, 2007