Coping With Cancer (NAPSA)—Adiagnosis of cancer changes a person’s life. People liv- ing with cancer face many different emotions including uncertainty, anger, or depression. Increasingly people turn to the Internet for ways to cope with the stress and challenges associated with a cancer diagnosis. Now, patients can access Peo- ple Living With Cancer (www. PLWC.org), the patient Web site of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), for reliable information directly from cancer doctors on more than 80 types of cancer. The site has a comprehensive section on coping with cancer that addresses issues such asselfimage, relationships, sexuality, depression, and grief. It also serves as a resource for cancer survivors to deal with concerns about the future as well as tips to help them maintain active, productive lives. “Being diagnosed with and treated for cancer changes a person. Some of the changes are physical, as a result of the diagnosis or treat- ments, and some of the changes are emotional or mental,” said Diane Blum, MSW, editor-in-chief of PLWC.org. “All changes, however, affect a person’s ability to cope, and it is important for people living with cancer to have quick, easy access to resources and information they can trust. PLWC.org offers a dedicated section on coping with these changes.” Cancer also affects family and friends, especially caregivers. The site serves as a resource for these Cancer patients and their families can find useful information at a Web site run by medical specialists. individuals as well, with advice on managing caregiving responsibilities and waysto cope. In addition, it provides links to other reliable patient organizations and resources such as sup- port groups. These groups can help people cope with cancer by providing a place to share experiences and learn from others who are facing similar situations. PLWC.org also hosts live chats and question-and-answersessions that provide an opportunity to ask national cancer experts questions about cancer research, treatment, prevention, and coping. Cancer has a lasting impact on patients, friends, and loved ones, and ASCO recognizes that people need support to cope with the dis- ease. For more information on cop- ing with cancer, visit People Living With Cancer at www.PLWC.org.
