For most patients, the words you have pancreatic cancer are some of the most stressful they have ever heard. In addition to being stressful for the person with the diagnosis, this can also be a challenging time for family members, close friends, and loved ones. The diagnosis of one person can have a wide and lasting effect on many people. Pancreatic cancer is a malignant neoplasm originating from abnormal cells arising in tissues forming the pancreas. The most common type of pancreatic cancer, which accounts for 95% of these tumors, is adenocarcinoma. Pancreatic cancer is known to be an aggressive type of malignancy, and requires in many cases surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy treatments. Because of the aggressive nature of this diagnosis, treatment of pancreatic cancer requires a multidisciplinary team of physicians and care providers, including specialists in counseling and stress management. Most people are aware that it is impossible to face a pancreatic cancer diagnosis and not have added stress in your life. In fact, many patients state that cancer is the most difficult challenge they have ever faced. In addition to the added stress of the diagnosis, the standard cancer therapies and treatments can also be difficult and require great inner strength, perseverance, and inner resolve. In addition, a strong support group of friends and family can provide great relief and can provide a needed life-line for patients. This patient handbook was written to empower patients with stress management tools to aid them in their cancer diagnosis and treatment. It has been written with clinical expertise, and by Tess Taft who has years of experience in the care of patients going through cancer therapy. Although each person’s background and situation is different, these tools can provide assistance to you or your loved one during their cancer battle.
