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Bladder Cancer (cont.)

Living with cancer presents many new challenges for you and for your family and friends.

You will probably have many worries about how the cancer will affect you and your ability to live a normal life, that is, to care for your family and home, to hold your job, and to continue the friendships and activities you enjoy.
Many people feel anxious and depressed. Some people feel angry and resentful; others feel helpless and defeated.

For most people with cancer, talking about their feelings and concerns helps.

Your friends and family members can be very supportive. They may be hesitant to offer support until they see how you are coping. Don't wait for them to bring it up. If you want to talk about your concerns, let them know.
Some people don't want to "burden" their loved ones, or they prefer talking about their concerns with a more neutral professional. A social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy can be helpful if you want to discuss your feelings and concerns about having cancer. Your urologist or oncologist should be able to recommend someone.
Many people with cancer are profoundly helped by talking to other people who have cancer. Sharing your concerns with others who have been through the same thing can be remarkably reassuring. Support groups of people with cancer may be available through the medical center where you are receiving your treatment. The American Cancer Society also has information about support groups all over the United States.

For more information about support groups, contact the following agencies:

American Cancer Society
1-800-ACS-2345
National Cancer Institute, Cancer Information Service
1-800-4-CANCER [(800) 422-6237)]
TTY (for caller who are deaf and hard of hearing) 1-800-332-8615
Cancercare
1-800-813-4637
American Urological Association
1-866-ring-aua
Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
1-301-215-9099; 888-901-BCAN