Questions to ask your loved one’s doctor
l H ow often will follow-up appointments and scans be needed? l W ho should we contact if new symptoms appear? l W hat supportive care services are available for both patient and caregiver?
l W hat is the goal of this treatment? l W hat side effects should we expect and how can they be managed? l H ow will we know if the treatment is working? l A re there clinical trials available for this stage of disease?
Who Is on Your Team as a Caregiver? Being a caregiver can be emotionally and physically demanding. It’s important to know who you can lean on when you need help, such as:
Friends and family To provide emotional support, help with meals, transportation or household tasks. Your own healthcare providers To help you maintain your physical and mental health. Support groups Both in-person and online groups for caregivers can help you connect with others who
Caregiving Tips l Ask questions early and often so you can help your loved one make informed decisions. l W rite things down during appointments so nothing gets missed. l Share responsibilities when possible, to avoid burnout. l Take breaks and allow yourself time to rest and recharge. l Stay connected with your own support system — friends, family and professionals. l Look after your own health , including regular checkups, exercise and healthy eating.
understand what you’re going through. Community and faith-based resources
Local organizations, faith communities and nonprofits often provide respite care, counseling or financial assistance.
Important Note to Remember
You don’t have to do this alone. Being part of your loved one’s care team is important but so is taking care of yourself. Lean on your own support system, ask for help when you need it and remember that your well-being matters too. The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) offers programs and resources for both patients and caregivers, including virtual ocular melanoma support groups, the MRF Patient Forum and free educational materials, such as quarterly newsletters and educational webinars, at melanoma.org.
For more information on our CURE OM initiative email cureom@melanoma.org . For additional emotional or practical support, organizations like CancerCare ( cancercare.org ) and the Cancer Support Community ( cancersupportcommunity.org ) provide counseling, online groups and caregiver-focused programs.
melanoma.org melanoma.org/cure-om cureom@melanoma.org cancercare.org cancersupportcommunity.org forum.melanoma.org
MRF
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