
Welcome to the course! Meet your instructor, Dr Beatrice Preti, medical oncologist.
In this video, we take some time to reflect on the definition of "hope", and how hope can fit into this new reality we're finding ourselves in.
In this video, we take some time to reflect on the power of words, and what is within our power to "fight" for.
Filmed at the local library during a children's event -- hence the background noise!
In this optional video, I test out some basic mindfulness exercises for focus, clarity, and calm. It can be helpful to engage in mindfulness practices before making any major decisions, or when feeling overwhelmed. Feel free to look online for other mindfulness practices which sound appealing to you!
In this video, we go through what you might experience during your first visit with your cancer team. A sample (medical oncology!!!) clinic sheet is provided in the Resources section. Ask your team if they have something similar!
This course is designed for people who have recently been diagnosed with cancer, as well as the loved ones supporting them. A new cancer diagnosis can bring fear, frustration, and uncertainty about the future. It can be easy to be overwhelmed by new terminology, appointments, and decisions—especially at a time when you might not be feeling your best. This course aims to provide a calm, clear starting point, helping to break down potential next steps, allowing you to check in with yourself, and empowering you with questions to ask your care team about the road ahead, while offering reassurance that you are not alone.
Since navigating the medical system can feel daunting, the course also includes practical tools to help you prepare for appointments, understand your care plan, and ask meaningful questions of your oncology team. This will include discussing the different healthcare professionals who might be involved in your care, the difference between an academic and community centre, and answers to commonly asked questions posed by people like you, drawn from real experiences. Above all, this course is designed to help you feel more grounded, more informed, and more supported as you take your next steps on the road ahead.