A real life-line book, one that will take you play-by-play through the breast cancer journey is The Silver Lining: A Supportive and Insightful Guide to Breast Cancer by Hollye Jacobs. I wish I had this book in the beginning of my journey, because it really takes you through everything!

But then again, I’m not sure I wanted to know all the possibilities of things that might happen or could happen. Maybe trying to tell me about the drains? Yes, that would have been helpful. I just don’t know if I was ready for that kind of information early on, though.

I think it was better to only concentrate on what I could see as it unfolded. However, somewhere in the midst of treatment, I think, I would’ve liked to have had this book to find out what other things I needed to know.

Money
I would have welcomed advice about not paying the hospital bills right away because the insurance will kick in and you may owe less than the 1st statement indicated. You do not need to overpay or make yourself crazy or frantic by obsessing over every little bill that comes in.

All of this can stress you out and as we know stress is something we are to AVOID during this time. I mean, realistically, we all have stress. It is what pushes us to excel and keep going. However, because it takes too much to deal with lots of stressors at this time; we must take it easy. There are groups such as the American Cancer Society that will help you navigate this complex world of finances during and when coming out of this journey.

Here are some helpful resources:
Living Beyond Breast Cancer – Independent non-profit HealthWell Foundation – safety net for uninsured patients (also great website chats, information, conferences, etc.)
Look Good, Feel Better – Make-up & more
How to Find Financial Assistance
The Pink Fund – Non-medical help for patients in treatment.
The Help Now Fund – Emergency financial assistance for rent and utility bills

I wonder what else I need to say about this whole cancer journey. It is certainly an experience. One I will never forget. Oddly enough, it is one in which we often come out stronger than we were before it began. Finding yourself

Funny
Here are a couple of fun and relatable reads, hopefully they will help you reduce some stress during this time. Why I Wore Lipstick to My Mastectomy by Geralyn Lucas will have you laughing as will The Air I Breathe by Pat Greenleaf James. The picture in this blog is from the movie version of Lucas’ book.

“Here’s my gift-giving rule: Respect your current financial situation.” Suze Orman

#lettheexperiencesofotherslightyourway   #helpisontheway    #Dontyouneedalaugh

For the Love of Money – O’Jays

Dr. Harriette