[Narrator]

And, now consider the situation Leo faces and the way he stands up for what he wants.
 
[Leo]

I was diagnosed with advanced pancreatic cancer. The surgeon wanted to perform a major operation. The cancer doctor wanted to try experimental chemotherapy. My family wanted to go for any treatment that might give us more time together. And, my family doctor simply wanted to make me more comfortable. With all the different opinions, I needed to decide for myself. My goal is simply to die with dignity and without pain. My plan includes a number of things -- telling my family and my doctors about my wishes, talking with all of my doctors about my medical needs, making sure I have enough pain medicine, taking care of my legal and financial responsibilities, and, asking for assistance from my spiritual counselor.
 
[Narrator]

Successful plans begin with finding information and then developing clear ways to communicate with those who can help you most: your health care team, family and friends, and other cancer survivors. In short, you can become your own best advocate by learning how to set goals and make plans to achieve these goals.

[Narrator]

You can learn or strengthen your self-advocacy skills in a variety of ways. One way is by listening to these programs and practicing the exercises until you feel you have increased your skill level in your weaker areas. Another way to become a better self-advocate is by going to support groups. These groups can provide education about cancer, help you understand that what you are experiencing is normal, share how to find needed information, and give you many tips about managing your illness, your relationships, and the health care system.

[Narrator]

There are other types of support, such as poetry or art-therapy groups, that can help you use your own creativity to become a better self-advocate. If you feel uncomfortable in a group setting, you may benefit from seeing a counselor who specializes in cancer-related issues.
 
[Narrator]

A variety of pamphlets and booklets is available on cancer-related topics. You can get these at your doctor's office, or through your hospital's cancer resource center. Visit your local bookstore for books about how other people have managed their cancer experience, and on such topics as assertiveness training. You'll find some suggested resources in the booklet that is part of this Cancer Survival Toolbox.

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