Western Medicine provides excellent diagnostic methods. These can include:

• blood and other fluid analysis important for measuring organ function
• accurate assessment of blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and neurological response to stimuli
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT)Scans
• needle or surgical biopsy

In terms of treating cancer, Western Medicine can offer:

• Surgery to remove tumors and tissue surrounding tumors that may contain cancer cells
• Chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells and arrest or slow cancer cell production
• Radiation uses high-energy from x-rays, gamma rays, neutrons, and other sources to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors

Western Medicine Team Members should include:

• Primary Care Physician
• Oncologist
• Radiologist
• Surgical team
• Nurses and/or social workers
• Pharmacist

Natural and Complementary Medicine is useful to:

• Reduce stress and focus on the whole being (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual)
• Palliate side effects such as lack of appetite, fatigue, nausea, pain, and muscle weakness as a result of the disease itself and/or medical interventions used to treat the disease
• Nutritional and lifestyle support for comfort and quality of life

Natural Medicine Team Members may include:

• Naturopath (specializing in cancer)
• Homeopathic Physician
• Physical Therapist, Personal Trainer
• Nutrition Specialist or Registered Dietician
• Massage Therapist, Acupuncture or Reiki practitioner
• Hypnotherapist or Meditation Teacher
• Life Coach, Counselor, Psychologist or Clergy

Other Important Team members:

• Health Insurance contacts
• Health Advocate
• Family, friends and neighbors
• Health Educators
• Other cancer survivors
• Animal companions

Wellness Considerations and Practices during the Cancer Journey:

Balance Breathing Crying Dreaming Enjoying Nature Faith Family Friendship Giving Gratitude Happiness

Home Hope Hugs Journaling Laughter Learning Listening Love Meditation Peace Prayer

Reading Receiving Reflection Spirit Stretching Surrender Talking Trust Walking Water Wishes