Question: I was just diagnosed with lung cancer and I’m feeling overwhelmed. What are the best resources available to better understand my diagnosis and prepare for what’s to come?
Answer: It is normal to feel overwhelmed after receiving a lung cancer diagnosis. There is a lot to learn, and there can be many decisions to make in a short amount of time, all while navigating the difficult emotions that come with learning that you have cancer.
GO2 is here to help you get through this difficult time and offers many resources that can help to support you. We suggest that you:
- Call or email our HelpLine to connect with a caring and highly trained member of the GO2 team who can help with 1-on-1 support, including questions to ask your healthcare team, referrals for 2nd opinions, and other resources that might be relevant to you. We can also connect you with our LungMatch team who can help you to understand your diagnosis, available treatments, and clinical trial options.
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- Download or order our free educational materials. All materials are written in plain language and are easy to understand. We recommend the following two publications that could be very helpful: Our comprehensive handbook with detailed information ranging from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. Available for non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer.
- Understanding a Lung Cancer Diagnosis describes types of lung cancer and common tests and treatments.
- In addition, we would encourage you to watch the Lung Cancer Living Room, our expert speaker series, live in person or online via YouTube on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. You can also explore previously aired episodes on YouTube at your convenience. These hour-long conversations with lung cancer experts cover everything from treatment options to living better with lung cancer. Some episodes you might find helpful right now include:
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- Multi-Disciplinary Management of Lung Cancer with the team from Memorial Cancer Institute
- Surgical Options for Lung Cancer with Dr. Jeffery B. Velotta
- All About Radiation Oncology with Dr. Daniel Schiffner
- The Promise of Precision Medicine, Targeted Therapies, and Immunotherapy with Dr. Joel W. Neal
- All About Pulmonary Care with Dr. Brian Gotkin
- Connect with a Phone Buddy to talk 1-on-1 with someone affected by lung cancer. They’ve been in your shoes and are uniquely qualified to lend support and share information and resources.
- Join a Gathering HOPE community social meeting to connect virtually with other people affected by lung cancer to find hope, friendship, and support.
Facing a lung cancer diagnosis can be a challenging experience, and we want you to know that you do not have to face it alone. Please take advantage of everything that GO2 offers. Our committed and caring team is here to help you and walk alongside you every step of the way.
Please note that the information included in any published answer is for educational pursuit only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult their healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation. Nothing from GO2 for Lung Cancer should be construed as an attempt to offer or render a medical opinion.
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