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Q & A: How are lives altered after the diagnosis of a brain tumor?
Posted by:
Patient Services Team on
April 19, 2011 at
11:33AM UEDT
Question:
How are lives altered after the diagnosis of a brain tumor?
Answer:
Recently I did a research study with several expert nurses around the country. We talked with survivors and caregivers about what is was like at least three years after the diagnosis of a highly malignant brain tumor.
One word that we consistently heard was CHANGE. Survivors and caregivers had experienced change from the time the symptoms came on and the diagnosis of the tumor was given. Cognitive changes occurred and often resulted in short term memory loss and inability to process. Managing several tasks at once becomes impossible when it used to be so easy. Many times the caregiver had to take over some of the responsibilities of the survivor. The spontaneity of life seemed to stop as plans for chemo, or other treatments and the next MRI took precedence.
Another word was LOSS. Many survivors felt a loss for the job they used to have. Some survivors mourned the loss of their intellectual capacity. A loss was felt about the change in the relationship with their caregivers. Some survivors felt a loss of social status in the church, or even in their children’s school.
Finally, the survivors and caregivers found some ways to COPE with the change and loss. They saw their lives in a new perspective. They valued their relationship with their families, and realized that life is precious. They found new friends in support groups. They began to take one day at a time.
Lives are dramatically altered after a brain tumor. It is painful but, for most people, some positive aspects are found.
Mary Lovely, PhD, RN
Medical Information Specialist/Associate Director of Research
(1) Comments
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Posted by: Jackie2 on April 19, 2011 7:23PM UEDT
I would add 'CELEBRATE' to the three listed above. After the traumatic experience of a brain tumor diagnosis, grueling treatment/surgery, and loss of our capacity, relationship,...etc., we also celebrate our survivorship.
We are alive! And that's worth celebrating!
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