Caused by exposure to asbestos, mesothelioma – a rare and deadly cancer infecting the lining of the lungs, heart, and chest cavity – can lay dormant in the body for decades before patients develop symptoms. Once diagnosed, the disease moves quickly, and patients are often left with a short survival period. A mesothelioma diagnosis can be devastating not only to the patient themselves, but also to their loved ones. Maintaining open and honest communication can help both patients and their family and friends get through what can be an extremely difficult time.
Like other cancers, patients suffering from mesothelioma need a support system while undergoing treatment. This can include spouses, siblings, parents, children, friends, neighbors, or even coworkers. These relationships are more important than ever for mesothelioma patients, but the diagnosis can put a strain on them in unexpected ways. Learning how to communicate effectively with loved ones and share this journey with them can help relieve stress and prepare patients for the fight ahead.
Asking for Help Alleviates Feelings of Helplessness
It is important to consider who will be most impacted by a mesothelioma diagnosis besides the patient. Their spouse or partner will also have their life drastically changed by this news; patients may be unable to work or contribute to household responsibilities, which can place a heavy burden on their partner. Partners may also feel helpless as they watch someone they love go through treatment, knowing that they cannot help fight the disease. Talking openly about these feelings can help alleviate the fear, anger, or resentment that may start to grow in this situation.
In addition to the patient’s spouse, family and friends will often wonder what they can do to help, if anything. These offers are genuine, and patients should take advantage of them if there are areas in which they need a helping hand. Preparing a list with several tangible items on it – which can include things like cooking, yard work, walking the dog, rides to appointments, or anything else you need – allows people to choose the tasks that they can assist with and stay involved in a comfortable way that is also a great asset to the patient.
Individuals who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma may find it difficult to ask for help. On top of everything else, this in itself can be a source of stress. It is important to remember that they have people on their side that are willing and able to help them through this. Some may want to be more involved than others, which is perfectly normal. Patients may also want to add a professional counselor or therapist to their team to give them the tools to cope with their diagnosis. As long as there is open communication between patients and loved ones, everyone can get what they need to face the challenges ahead.
Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyers at Shein Law Advocate for Victims of Asbestos Exposure
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related disease, call the mesothelioma lawyers at Shein Law. Our team has the knowledge and experience to obtain the compensation you deserve, and we will be with you every step of the way so that you can focus on your treatment and recovery. With offices conveniently located in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, we help asbestos exposure victims and their families throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Call us today at 1-877-SHEINLAW (743-4652) or contact us online to speak to a Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyer today.