Step by step

Practical guides

Checklists and plain instructions for the moments when you just need to know what to do next.

Guide 1 — You've just been diagnosed: the first two weeks

Get the exact name of your diagnosis in writing — cancer type, subtype, and stage if known. Ask for copies of your pathology report; you're entitled to them.
Bring a second set of ears to appointments. A friend or family member who takes notes will catch things you miss. It's also okay to record visits — just ask first.
Consider a second opinion. It's routine, oncologists expect it, and insurance usually covers it. Major cancers centers (NCI-designated ones especially) see rare situations most often.
You usually have more time than it feels like. For most cancers, taking one to two weeks to get organized and informed does not change your outcome — confirm your timeline with your doctor, then use that time.
Tell people on your terms. There's no right way. Some people tell everyone; others tell a small circle and appoint one "information officer" to update the rest.

Print this, or save it to your phone, and don't be shy about working down the list:

Before day one: see a dentist (treat any infections first), stock easy bland foods, arrange a ride for your first session, and fill your anti-nausea prescriptions.
What to bring: layers (infusion rooms run cold), water bottle, snacks, entertainment, and lip balm. Sessions can run several hours.
The golden rule: take anti-nausea medicine on the schedule you're given, even if you feel fine. Preventing nausea is far easier than stopping it.
Know your emergency number and threshold: fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher means call immediately, any hour.
Track how you feel in a simple notebook or app — patterns across cycles help your team fine-tune your supportive medicines.

Small and often beats large meals — aim for something every two to three hours rather than three big plates.
Prioritize protein (eggs, yogurt, beans, fish, smoothies with protein powder) to maintain strength and help your body repair.
For taste changes: cold or room-temperature foods often taste better; plastic utensils help if food tastes metallic; tart flavors (lemon, ginger) can cut through.
Stay hydrated — treatment is much harder on a dehydrated body. Broths, ice pops, and diluted juice count.
Ask for the oncology dietitian. Most cancer centers have one, the visit is often free, and personalized advice beats any list.
Check before supplements. Some vitamins and herbs interfere with chemotherapy and radiation — always clear them with your team first.

Create one folder (physical or digital) for every bill, explanation of benefits, and letter. Future-you will be grateful.
Learn three numbers: your deductible, your out-of-pocket maximum, and whether your treatment center is in-network.
Prior authorization delays are common — your oncology office fights these daily; call them first when something stalls.
Denied? Appeal. A large share of insurance appeals succeed. Your care team can supply a letter of medical necessity, and Triage Cancer and the Patient Advocate Foundation offer free help.
Never pay a large bill immediately. Ask for an itemized bill, check it against your insurance statement, and ask the hospital about financial assistance — most have programs they don't advertise.

Want these as printables? Check the blog, where we expand each guide with downloadable checklists and reader questions.