Working

One of the first questions many newly-diagnosed mesothelioma patients ask is "Can I continue to work?" For some, the answer is "yes". For others, it may be an emphatic "no". A lot depends of the seriousness of the illness. However, if your doctor says it's okay to keep working, there will be a few issues that must be addressed with your employer and/or co-workers. It will, of course, be necessary to tell your employer about your disease and what your limitations might be because of it, especially during treatment. Most employers are empathetic and may offer to help adjust your hours, obtain coverage for sick days, or otherwise make it easier for you to remain at work as long as possible.

Some meso patients prefer not to disclose their disease to their co-workers, especially at its onset. Unfortunately, absences may tip them off that something is amiss. Changes in appearance may also cause them to figure out what's happening. At that time, you may choose to explain the situation rather than allow rumors to float around the workplace. It's also important to visit your Human Resources department to determine your financial rights during this time and to review medical insurance coverage. Remember, you cannot be fired or laid off because you have cancer. If that happens, contact your union representative or seek legal advice immediately. If you choose not to work, that's okay. Many see this as much-needed time that can be spent with family and friends. Still, others decide to make a bit of a career change at this time, finding a work-from-home business or a work option other than their "regular" job.

Dealing with Daily Life

For some meso patients, simply dealing with the tasks of everyday life can be a chore. You can't always do the things that were once so easy and you find that people - including friends and family - treat you differently, despite your pleadings. Appearance often plays a big role in maintaining normalcy. Your body will inevitably suffer the affects of the cancer and you'll probably look different. Treatments, such as chemotherapy, can wreak havoc with your body, causing hair loss and other noticeable side affects. Some cancer patients feel better when they treat themselves to new clothes that fit, a stylish wig, or anything that will simply make them feel better about themselves. And when you feel better about yourself, others will treat you like the "old" you.

Mesothelioma patients also need to remember that it's okay to ask for help. If you're accustomed to running out to the store whenever you need something, this might need to change. If you usually mow the lawn on your own or fix your car whenever it needs a tune-up, you might need to ask someone else to do these things. Contact your church or other religious institution and find out if someone can offer a few hours to assist you. Ask family and friends to run an errand or cook a meal. Find out if you qualify for any federally-funded programs, such as Meals on Wheels. The time may come when you need to hire in-home care. Hospital social workers or other members of your medical team can be helpful in securing a reliable caregiver that can be with you several hours a day or live with you in your home, if necessary. Be sure to obtain references before you hire. In some cases, your medical insurance may pay for all or a portion of this service.

Pet Care

Pets are wonderful, comforting friends to those who are sick. However, they can also become a burden when caring for them isn't so easy anymore. It may be necessary to eventually allow a friend or family member to care for your pet, which may involve letting your pet live somewhere else other than your home. Be sure, however, that the person caring for your pet schedules visits for you and the animal. If you don't have anyone who can care for your pet and you're having difficulty taking care of him/her, it may be time to consider giving up your dog, cat, or other animal, even though it will be a difficult decision. Remember, your pet needs love and daily care to survive and be happy. Consider what's best for him/her.

Travel

If you're an avid traveler, a diagnosis of mesothelioma may indeed limit your trips. While you may be able to maintain your travel schedule for a short time, as the disease progresses it will become more difficult. It's always a good idea to contact your doctor before booking any trip to discuss the specifics. For example, air travel can be difficult for the mesothelioma sufferer due to the changes in air pressure in the cabin and how that affects people with reduced lung capacity. Flying should especially be avoided after any kind of surgical procedure involving the lungs. Long flights where little movement is possible can also cause you to develop blood clots. Mesothelioma patients should NEVER travel to parts of the world where health concerns exist, especially if your immune system is compromised by treatments such as chemotherapy. Cancer sufferers may also have difficulty tolerating some of the immunizations that are necessary for travel to certain countries. If you do travel, be aware that you may require a doctor's note for some of your medications, particularly opiates, which can be mistaken for illegal drugs.

Financial Issues

Dealing with mesothelioma is scary enough without having to worry about how you'll make ends meet, especially if you're the major bread-winner for your family. That's why it's necessary to address financial issues sooner rather than later. This becomes especially frightening if you must leave your job. If this is the case, talk to your employer or a human resources representative at your company. They can inform you as to your financial rights in connection with health benefits, sick pay, leave of absence, or disability pay. It may also be necessary to contact a financial planner to determine how to best balance your estate and make the most of the money you've already saved. In addition, lawyers can help you deal with end-of-life financial issues, such as wills and inheritances.

For Senior Citizens

The practical issues of everyday life become especially difficult for senior citizens diagnosed with mesothelioma, especially if they live alone and have no family nearby. Elderly meso patients may need to investigate live-in care or other options so that they can get help with chores and daily care, like travel to treatments or help with medications, meals, and personal care issues like bathing. In the end stages of mesothelioma, a hospice may need to be considered. Contact your doctor or social worker for help with these matters.