q&a from a local cancer battler

Recently I have been in contact with some cancer battlers and here are some questions & answers I have had from one local bloke which I thought I would publish.

It always good to know what people want in our area and here are some very honest answers.

​How important do you believe support is for a person battling with cancer & Why?
Extremely important. Many cancer suffers have a wide variety of support and can differ considerably. In my situation, l have a very supportive network of family and friends who have help use greatly over the past two years. From mowing your lawns, support with your kids or just someone to talk to in specific moments during the battle can be very beneficial. There are also a number of agencies and support groups that are out there who are willing to help a range of people with a range of needs. 
 
How has your life changed since being diagnosed with cancer? Considerably but I have also maintained a relatively normal lifestyle as possible. I really enjoyed playing sport which unfortunately has taken a back seat at the moment until I win the battle. My outlook on life is a little different and I try to enjoy every possible moment with my family and friends. I have made changes to a range of things to hopefully support my treatment and outcome.
 
What support kind would you like see in Albury/Wodonga? The same as you would be see in any metropolitan city (Melbourne or Sydney) however this isn’t possible. The opening of the Albury/Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre has been fantastic and allows patients to receive their treatment in a fantastic environment (even though it’s one you don’t ever want to see) instead of getting in a car and having to travel.
 
What do you think has helped you the most while dealing with Cancer? Maintaining a normal lifestyle as much as possible and having an extremely positive outlook on life. There has been a number of terrible moments throughout the journey however l maintain that l will win this battle and some things will work to get rid of this disease outside my body. Also the understanding of family, friends and my employee. They have all been wonderful, caring and understanding of the situation that I find myself in. 
 
What advice would you give someone who got diagnosed for the first time? Be positive. There will be moments of negative experience and disappointment however you have a life to live so live it. Do your research on your disease, ask the questions you need and also be persistent in getting the responses/treatment you’re after. Also our doctors are the most educated people in this field so trust what they are telling you and believe in the treatment that you’re undertaking.