- With Mayo Clinic nurse educator
Sheryl M. Ness, R.N.
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Sheryl M. Ness, R.N.
Sheryl M. Ness
Sheryl Ness, R.N., O.C.N., is a nurse educator for the Cancer Education Program at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. She helps inform patients, families and caregivers about services and resources to help them through the cancer journey.
She has a master's degree in nursing from Augsburg College. In addition, she is an assistant professor of oncology at the College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, and is certified as a specialist in oncology nursing. Sheryl has worked for more than 20 years at Mayo Clinic as an educator. She has a keen interest in the importance of the quality of life and concerns of people living with cancer.
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Living with cancer blog
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Oct. 20, 2012
Connection to others vital for cancer survivors
By Sheryl M. Ness, R.N.
As a cancer survivor, it's so important to keep a close connection with others, including helpful resources that you might need as you recover.
Many times, it's as simple as needing someone to help with errands, shopping or household chores. Or it could be as complicated as getting a ride to your appointments.
When I talk with people about this, they tell me that they're hesitant to ask for help from others as they don't want to seem like a burden. On the other hand, I hear from family and friends who really want to help and don't know what to do.
A connection to others is important. Reach out to your family and friends when you need them. It doesn't always have to be about your cancer. Make a date for lunch, a movie, a walk or a simple cup of coffee.
For specific resources, you may want to explore:
- American Cancer Society — Road to Recovery and other support programs: 1-800-227-2345
- Faith in Action — Connection to others with a spiritual focus (www.putyourfaithinaction.org)
- CancerCare — Cancer support services for anyone affected by cancer (www.cancercare.org)
Feel free to share other resources that have helped you along the way. Follow me on Twitter at @SherylNess1. Join the discussion at #livingwithcancer.
6 comments posted
February 5, 2013 9:06 p.m.
What do you do after your close friend gets a negative cancer diagnosis and stops calling youn all together.
- Imani
October 28, 2012 6:10 p.m.
After my husband died, the support was CRUCIAL to my existence. So true. Many people did some great things for me. My friend started a website that offers tips that I found really helpful. www.exactlywhattheyneed.com
- Micki
October 27, 2012 4:12 a.m.
My father is currently suffering from cancer.He is very thankful to life for the care and concern shown towards him by his family as well as other people.Inspite of the fact that he was never a No. 1 according to society's business models.I link this fact to my spirituality-the fact that he enjoys this 'good fortune',though he is an agnostic and doesn't subscribe to my dogma
- sanjit
October 26, 2012 7:24 a.m.
Creative expression has been especially helpful for me as I've dealt with my illness. So I created a blog where others living with cancer could also post their creative works. www.ultra-sounds.org (totally non-profit)Feel free to pass on to others living with cancer.
- Samantha
October 25, 2012 3:58 p.m.
I've been cancer-free for 1 year and just want to tell everyone that trying to stay positive thru this journey is the key to beating this ugly thing..Chemo is not a fun time but i wouldn't let it take over my life.I was so determined and prayed alot to get my healthy life back.I just celebrated my 70th Bday in Sept. and feel great!!
- Ruth
October 25, 2012 2:53 p.m.
For any blood cancer, the First Connection Program through the Leukemia, Lymphoma Society is a great resource. They connect you with a current survivor so you can ask them any questions you may have about the cancer process.
- Cecil
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6 comments posted