This week you may have been tempted to set some resolutions for the new year. But we all know that it is a change in life that directs a new course, not a change in the calendar. A common theme is that patients always reassess the moment the doctor says “cancer”. They consider every life decision: smoking, drinking, activity, sun exposure, screenings, even where they live and if family or support is available. If you have faced this challenge, you know what entered your awareness with that singular discussion.

While you gather the team of docs and precede through procedures, you begin to wonder about your part in this new dynamic. Can you take some responsible action? Can you control your response to the drama to insinuate yourself into the healing? Can you elevate your game plan, focus your mind and improve your body for the treatment? Of course you can and you must.
Allow me to help with this new dynamic, and provide recommendations for your personal resolutions in the context of a diagnosis.

The first thing the doctor notices and documents is your fitness for treatment (ECOG) status. We actually design therapy considering this factor and so some patients will not be able to tolerate even the standard of care. Vow to be your best “ specimen”. To improve your fitness, hydrate, sleep, walk or exercise, eat or take nutritional supplements, now is not the time to lose weight. Gather your team of supporters. Get help with meals, cleaning, transportation and don’t try to handle other drama. This is enough now, so be a little selfish.

If diet is an issue, ask for a dietitian consult. Usually cancer takes a toll before we are aware of the diagnosis, often with weakness and weight loss. Ask for physical therapy evaluation for reconditioning. Resolve to be the strongest you can at the most challenging time of your life. Don’t let cancer make a wimp out of you.

Do make plans around your treatment. Don’t give cancer all the power. See family, friends, take short trips, don’t postpone enjoying yourself until therapy is over. You will be more fit, better prepared and more resilient if you reclaim your time. Take vitamin D 3, be honest about your pain so you can be treated, and discuss depression with your Doc. Bring your side effects to attention of the team so they can help you. Be honest with family. Listen to music. Go to church. Tell friends how they can help.

These recommendations sound simple, but you would be surprised how many abdicate all attention to the disease, not to their wellness. Let’s have the courage to be our best, regardless the challenges this new year. Cancer is a stinkin’ thief. Resolve to come to the battle prepared and confident. Now those are resolutions worthy of your effort.

Let’s all plan for a wonderful new year because you are brilliant and brave.