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| no conclusive study that shows that bone marrow transplants are any more effective than any other breast cancer therapies in extending a patient's life or enhancing the quality of life. Even so, bone marrow transplants continue to be a mainstream treatment that is very costly to the patient but generates a significant amount of income for the medical establishment. |
| I am also dubious about vaccines or gent therapy for cancer, which are currently the focus of research for possible cures for cancer. Once again, we need to remember to look at the whole person, not just the rumor, when treating cancer. |
| Arter The Diagnosis: What To Do First |
| A diagnosis of breast cancer brings with it an enormous cargo of decisionmaking. I try to help my clients find sources for information and advice so that they can confront their condition as warriors, with strength and positive feelings of control. I believe that the act of being proactive and making one's own decisions about one's health is healing in and of itself. Remember, cancer does not happen overnight. Very often it has taken years to develop. You have time to read, ask questions, and make the decisions that are right for you. Take as much time as you need to be comfortable with the healing path you have chosen. |
| After a breast cancer diagnosis, every woman should take these steps: |
| Ask your physician to explain the current stage and type of cancer you have. Ask for the pathology report, even if you don't understand it at first. Ask if there is anything unusual about your case and, if so, where (and who) are the best people suited to deal with your particular situation. |
| Call the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER for current information about your particular form of cancer and current research and treatment options. It is essential to do plenty of research before deriding which treatment is best. See page 294 of chapter 10 for a list of recommended reading material. |
| Find a good. holistic health care professional (herbalist or naturopathic physician) who can provide guidance about all the natural and complementary therapies that can help you. Be sure that this person is experienced in the area of cancer. Be comfortable with the person you choose. |
| Start a file of your medical records and keep all information current. |
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