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Receiving a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma is a heartbreaking and difficult experience for the patient as well as for family and loved ones. It can feel shocking, as if your whole world has been turned upside down. Many feel anger, loss of control, and overwhelm when first told they have a diagnosis of terminal mesothelioma cancer.

Mesothelioma is a cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was well known for being durable, fire resistant, and a superb, multi-purposed insulator. Because of these properties, and its affordability and availability, asbestos was used in many commercial, manufacturing and industrial products, causing many people to be exposed occupationally as well as environmentally.

Asbestos, when inhaled or ingested, causes serious and fatal illnesses. Mesothelioma is one type of incurable cancer caused by inhaling asbestos, which then becomes lodged in the lining of the lungs, chest or abdomen. Mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until decades later because of a long latency period between time of first exposure and development of symptoms.

Increased research and improved diagnostic measures have helped and yet mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it has reached advanced stages because the symptoms are difficult to diagnose. Although new treatments and drug therapies prolonging survival times and improving quality of life are being investigated, the majority of patients diagnosed with mesothelioma have less than two years to live.

For anyone diagnosed with mesothelioma, as well as their loved ones, facing a diagnosis of terminal mesothelioma can be daunting and heartbreaking. Initially, many will have feelings of shock, anger, sadness, and denial. Some will eventually come to terms with the fact they have a terminal cancer, while others will resist accepting the reality of their diagnosis. A variety of emotions and questions will arise as end of life concerns are explored and discussed.

There are some things that can help to cope better and feel some sense of control during the time of initial diagnosis.

1. Build a Network of Support: find support through family and friends, as well as doctors, specialists, nurses, and palliative and hospice care workers. Make sure that there is at least one person in your circle of support that you feel comfortable talking about your concerns and fears over having cancer and facing death. Communicate your wishes and do not be afraid to ask for what you need from those caring for you. Include people who are compassionate and helpful, and limit time with those that are draining or upsetting. Learning about options for palliative and hospice care will help increase where and how you spend your remaining days and is shown to increase overall quality of life.

2. Get Information: Find out as much as possible about mesothelioma, including information about stages, types, and causes. Inform yourself about standard treatments but also research new and alternative treatments and drug therapies. Ask for a support person to help you look into all the options if you are unable. If eligible, consider participating in a clinical trial which could extend your survival time and improve overall quality of life. To find out if there are any clinical trials suited for you, ask your mesothelioma oncologist.

3. Explore all avenues of compensation, both legal and medical: Know what medical and health benefits are covered by your insurance. Consult with a mesothelioma lawyer who specializes in asbestos lawsuits who will help you get financial compensation to offset loss of wages and medical costs. Even before the 1960′s, manufacturers knew that asbestos was a threat to health and yet did not warn or protect employees and the general public from exposure and risk of disease. An experienced mesothelioma attorney will readily identify possible sources of exposure, quickly file an asbestos lawsuit, and maximize monetary recovery.

4. Take Part in Support Groups: Hospitals often have support groups that meet on site. National and on-line support groups can also provide useful resources. Sharing with other people who are experiencing the same situation can provide you with information and help you to feel comfortable talking about your own concerns.

5. Take care of yourself, your family, and your relationships: In such a difficult time, it will be very beneficial to take time to spend with your loved ones. For some, it is a time to have important conversations and to heal any past grievances, regrets or upsets. Remembering good times, laughter, and non-cancer conversations can help relieve stress and ease pain, fear, and anxiety.

Most patients and their families will realize that even with new treatments and drug therapies, mesothelioma can not be cured although life can be extended and quality of life can be improved. Taking steps like those listed above can help mesothelioma patients and their loved ones realize that despite not being able to change the diagnosis, they do have some choice about how to move forward in treating the illness that can make a difference.

To find out more information, please call 1-800-440-4262.