Treatments - Ask your Doctor
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GVI Oncology recognises that when cancer is diagnosed the whole family is touched by the experience. Due to the domino effect that a cancer diagnosis may have on all aspects of the lives of patients and their loved ones, a professional counselling service is included in your treatment fees. At GVI Oncology we have a holistic approach in treating our patients. We acknowledge and include the importance of body, mind and soul. The counsellors of GVI are Oncology Social Workers by profession and are all experienced in assisting and guiding patients and families through a cancer journey. We suggest that you make use of the service as it provides a neutral space where you can ask questions, share concerns and deal with unexpected emotions. Counselling may include any one of or combination of the following interventions:
The impact of cancer on the family Individuals who are diagnosed with cancer are not alone in this experience; it also affects their families and loved ones. It is important to talk about changes in feelings, roles, needs and expectations during this period Remember that the issues of importance will differ for all families depending on the life stage of the family and the children. Families with young children will have other issues and needs than a family with adolescents or a retired couple. The oncology social workers in GVI oncology assist families in dealing with the challenges that cancer poses to them. Taking control over your treatment Patients are encouraged to become active members of their treatment team - engaging from the start with their oncologist regarding treatment decisions. According to Dr Harold Benjamin, founder of The Wellness Community in the USA "People with cancer who participate in their fight for cancer will improve the quality of their life and may enhance the possibility of their recovery " Patients and families are assisted in developing and individual action plans that will facilitate their healing journey . The longest journey begins with a single step, or so an ancient Chinese proverb tells us. You have many steps in store as you make your way through the coming months. RESOURCES: For any information on cancer and resources available in your community, contact the Oncology Social Worker in the practice where you are being treated or contact us . SUPPORT GROUPS Different units have different support groups running in their area. Contact the social worker at your unit for more information. CANCER BUDDY NETWORK GVI oncology supports the work of the NGO- People Living with Cancer (PLWC) They have trained cancer survivor volunteers available to assist patients who are newly diagnosed. The social worker in your unit can bring you in contact with a Cancer Buddy who had a similar diagnosis and treatment protocol than you . INTERNET SITES: The suggested sites will provide some general understanding of a diagnosis and treatment options. It's still best to liaise with your oncologist regarding your specific diagnosis and prognosis
EASTERN CAPE Border Oncology Unit : Currently vacant Langenhoven Drive Oncology Unit : Charmaine Oosthuizen and Mariana Lourens WESTERN CAPE George Oncology Unit : Rika Malan Panorama Oncology Unit : Emerentia Esterhuyse Rondebosch and Constantiaberg Oncology Unit : Clare Manicom Solway Oncology Unit : Caron Majewski Vergelegen Oncology Unit : Nicolene Andrews Vincent Pallotti Oncology Unit : Ania Garnett ADDITIONAL RESOURCES http://www.cancerbacup.org.uk/ http://www.cancer.net/ |
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