ON CANCER PATIENTS

My experience is that many cancer patients are clearly afraid of their disease , what it is doing to their bodies, and what could be the end of their lives. As a result of that fear, patients tend to cling to their doctors' every word, go along with treatments their doctors suggest, and generally will not support any treatment contrary to what their doctors advise. This fear will lead them into a state of mind which will resist the opportunity to consider treatment options different from their doctors' recommendations. It is, therefore, important for husbands and wives, family members to gather around the cancer patient and discuss openly the options for treatment available to the patient. So far as I know, only the Pope is infallible. Most doctors are hard-working, well-meaning individuals, but not all of them. Most doctors are deeply devoted to the care and treatment of their patients, but not all of them. Most doctors are conscientious, caring and loving individuals, but not all of them. It is the responsibility of a loved one, family member, and friend to keep watch over treatment, make certain your loved one is getting the best treatment possible; and if one finds a diversion of the best treatment, then speak up, speak your mind, and let those in charge of treatment know what you are thinking. If you find a doctor who you consider to be stubborn, not given to options, not listening, then perhaps it is time to move on to another doctor. At that point, you must confront the fear of your loved one with cancer and explain your position and the reasons you hold the position to move on.