How Does Cancer Surgery Affect Families
The knowledge that a family member has cancer and requires life-saving surgery can be devastating to even the strongest of families. Understanding the diagnosis and treatment required by the patient as well as the potential long term effects of the surgery will help all those involved answer the question of how does cancer surgery affect families? As the family and the patient discuss outcomes with their doctors, they will be able to identify the potential problems that will need to be addressed.
Understanding the Facts Helps to Make Informed Choices
The diagnosis of cancer is traumatic, but the surgery itself can create its own trauma that requires lots of support for all involved. If the surgery is major surgery which carries its own risk to life or if it is extensive and cosmetic changes are required due to the extent of the tumours involved, there is the potential for added anxiety.
Sometimes, the hospital environment can create anxiety in the mind of the patient and family as they feel out of control with all that is happening to them. Most cancer wards will offer a holistic approach to their patients and are able to provide a range of support staff and options to make this potentially stressful time somewhat easier for the family.
From the time of diagnosis, the medical staff will usually discuss all aspects of the diagnosis and required treatment with patients and their families in an open and caring manner. This will empower the patient and family and enable them to make informed decisions concerning their lives and the surgical interventions and medical treatments offered.
Support is Available
Counsellors working with patients and their families are sensitive to the stress and other issues relating to the question of how does cancer surgery affect families. The stress of financial loss or separation from children or other close family members may need to be addressed. The social worker can guide the family to resources and services that will assist with home renovations, home nursing and hospice care services as required. If there is financial need, the social worker can help to locate appropriate financial assistance or assist the family in locating alternative income options. If for example, the patient was the main bread winner in the family and there is a loss of income as a result of the patient’s illness they can help to find a solution.
The shock to the family can be very traumatic and most hospitals provide counselling and pastoral care specific to the needs of patients and their families. Pastoral care teams can sit with the families and listen to their fears and allow them the opportunity to grieve in a safe environment with people who are trained to support families through this stressful period in an accepting manner.
Families Don’t Have to Walk This Journey Alone
Many people seeking to find the answers to “how does cancer surgery affect families” will find the supportive environment of the hospital or hospice will answer their questions and provide them with the help they need. The help will not only support their loved one, but also help them to find support for themselves.