The phrase “you have cancer” is often met with a wave of fear and confusion. For those facing such a diagnosis, the overwhelming uncertainty can be profound. Victor Gonzalez, Senior Director of Patient Programs at the Lymphoma Research Foundation, understands this deeply—both professionally and personally. He has supported countless patients navigating blood cancers like lymphoma and leukemia, while also dealing with the emotional toll of his mother’s aggressive stomach cancer diagnosis and his own recent health challenges.
In a conversation with Gonzalez, he emphasized how critical it is for cancer patients to manage both their mental and physical health during their treatment journey. A blood cancer diagnosis, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), often feels like a seismic shift in life. “It’s a huge wake-up call,” Gonzalez explains, noting that while it’s essential to be prepared, there is also a sense of paralysis that patients inevitably feel. However, Gonzalez suggests that gaining knowledge about the disease and treatment options can significantly empower patients, providing them with the tools needed to regain control over their lives.
Finding Hope in the Midst of Fear
Gonzalez says that upon receiving a CLL diagnosis, time often seems to freeze. The initial reaction can be one of fear, but he advises patients to focus on staying positive. “In the 12 years I’ve worked as a patient advocate, I’ve observed that those who maintain a positive outlook often fare better in treatment,” Gonzalez reflects.
He recommends looking ahead to significant life events, such as family gatherings or graduations, to provide perspective. Keeping these milestones in mind can help patients remember that they are more than their diagnosis. “You are navigating through cancer, but you are not your cancer,” he says, emphasizing that maintaining a sense of purpose is crucial.
Redefining Identity Through Cancer
Cancer treatment often forces patients to confront what matters most to them, Gonzalez notes. For many, the diagnosis becomes an opportunity for self-reflection and even reinvention. Some patients use the experience to explore new careers or hobbies, while others become patient advocates or motivational speakers. By engaging in these new endeavors, they gain a renewed sense of purpose.
“I’ve had patients tell me that cancer helped them rethink what’s important in life,” Gonzalez says. “It ignites a passion for prioritizing both mental and physical health, ultimately fostering a deeper sense of mindfulness and meaning.”
Advancements in Treatment Offer New Hope
As the treatment landscape for CLL evolves, new therapeutic options provide patients with greater hope. Traditionally, chemotherapy was the primary treatment for CLL, but in recent years, there have been significant strides in alternative therapies. One promising option is the BCL-2 inhibitor, VENCLEXTA, which targets proteins that help cancer cells survive.
“Over the last five or six years, the progress in CLL treatment has been remarkable,” Gonzalez says, highlighting the impact of newer therapies like VENCLEXTA, which helps the body’s natural processes destroy cancer cells. This approach is especially helpful for those who may want a break from continuous treatment.
For patients considering chemo-free treatment, VENCLEXTA in combination with GAZYVA offers a one-year treatment regimen, a time frame that may seem manageable for those already facing significant challenges. Gonzalez advises patients to discuss all available options with their healthcare providers to make informed decisions about their care.
In conclusion, Gonzalez encourages CLL patients to stay well-informed and active in their treatment journey. He stresses the importance of embracing the mental and emotional aspects of cancer treatment, as these elements can significantly impact recovery and quality of life.
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