As stated by the American Cancer Society, cancer has a lasting impact on you, your loved ones, and your friends. Everyone needs support to cope with the physical and emotional changes. Learn how to keep your self-esteem, where to go for help, and what you can do to deal with side effects and long-term physical changes.

Find the right doctor for you and ask your doctor any questions you might have. Do the research at your local library and on the internet. Visit the National Library of Medicine at http://www.nlm.nih.gov/, the National Cancer Institute at www.nci.nih.gov, or the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org. The more you know the more you can take charge of your life.

A great source of information is a support group. Support groups help ease the anxiety and loneliness sometimes associated with cancer diagnosis. These groups give people an opportunity to share what they are feeling as well learn from others.

Pay attention to what your body is saying. If you feel tired take a break. Know your limits and pay attention to the changes that your body is going through. During medical treatments your body may react in different ways and it is important that you listen and are sensitive to those changes.

Good nutrition is especially important for people with cancer. That is because the illness itself, as well as its treatments, may affect your appetite. Cancer and cancer treatments may also alter your body’s ability to tolerate certain foods and to use nutrients. Visit http://www.cancer.org for more information.

Continue doing the things you enjoy. You may cut down on some activities but stay as involved as you can. Spend time with family, friends, the community and enjoy hobbies.