Archive for category Support

Most of us are aware of the benefits of exercising, but we may overlook the benefits if we have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or other serious illness.  Exercising can be an important part of your overall well-being when suffering from a serious illness.  Also, exercise has been show to improve survival rates and quality of life in cancer patients.  I encourage my clients to talk to their medical provider about exercising and what would be recommended for their individual case.

Guidelines for physical fitness for most cancer patients and survivors:

• Aerobic exercise for 20-60 minutes 3-5 times per week  (walking, running, swimming)
• Anabolic exercise for major muscle groups 1-3 times per week  (weight or resistance training)
• Flexibility exercises for major muscle groups 2-3 times per week (stretching, yoga, pilates)

Changes associated with regular exercising include:

Increased-

1. survival rate
2. quality of life
3. muscle mass, strength and power
4. cardiovascular fitness (healthy heart)
5. immune system capacity
6. physical functioning ability
7. flexibility

Decreased-

1. nausea
2. fatigue
3. body fat
4. heart rate
5. blood pressure
6. depression and anxiety
7. psychological and emotional stress

Remember to consult your physician or health care provider.  Start small and work up to increased levels of activity.   Every step helps.

More information on Exercising and Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma Awareness Day was started a few years back by grassroots efforts of victims, families, and the Meso Foundation.  It is a day to spread the word about mesothelioma and the dangers of asbestos exposure.  It’s also a day to advocate for legislation to ban asbestos use in the U.S.  For me, it’s a day to recognize those currently suffering from mesothelioma, their loved ones, and those we have lost to this devastating disease.

People will choose different ways to spread awareness and advocacy.  Some will have large events like 5K run/walks, dinners, and bowl-a-thons.  Some will spread the word in their communities by handing out literature and talking about their experiences during festivals and events.   Some will contact their local radio stations to play Warren Zevon songs and talk about mesothelioma.  And others will contact their government representatives to encourage recognition of this day and to introduce legislation for an asbestos ban.  However you choose to participate in Mesothelioma Awareness Day – good luck and continue your great work.  It is the many voices combined that will be heard.

Increased awareness and advocacy about the long term affects of asbestos exposure such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases is still needed.  Raising awareness can lead to increased funding for research; which in turn can lead to improved diagnostic and treatment methods.  Ultimately this will benefit those victims currently suffering from mesothelioma, their families, and people who may develop (be diagnosed with) mesothelioma in the future.   Lastly, a ban on asbestos in the US and worldwide could eliminate people suffering from these diseases associated with asbestos exposure.

Every effort helps.  Spread the word about mesothelioma and how is has impacted your life.  Join with others who have similar experiences.  And remember working to increase awareness is important all year long.

Find more information:  Raising Mesothelioma Awareness

Recently, I have heard a lot about caring for the caregiver.  Often in my line of work the focus is on the person suffering from mesothelioma, lung cancer, or other asbestos-related disease.  Sometimes we need to be reminded the caregivers need attention and support too.

Below are a few caregiver tips:

1. Be realistic about this disease and it’s process.  Mesothelioma is different than other cancers and the process is different in each patient.
2. Set realistic goals for yourself and accept help from others.
3. Find someone you trust to talk about your feelings and frustrations with.  Share your experience of caring for someone with mesothelioma and what that means to you.
4. Allow yourself time spent away from your loved one.  You need a break too.
5. Remember taking care of yourself is a necessity, not a luxury.

Talking to and sharing with other caregivers can be helpful because they are dealing with similar issues first hand.  Other caregivers can share what has worked for them.  You can incorporate their ideas and your own into your own coping strategies.

In a past blog I listed the Caregiver’s Bill of Rights – I think reading them is a good reminder to take care of your needs as a caregiver.  You can also find more information on the Caregiver Tips page of this website and on the Caring for the Caregiver page at the National Cancer Institute website.