Since her cancer diagnosis, my sister sees her future as hopeless. What can I say to her?

Once the first shock wears off, most people with a diagnosis of cancer are able to develop a sense of hope that helps them get through the illness. You can tell your sister that several million cancer survivors are now living with no evidence of disease because of the success of modern treatments. Many other people are living productive lives because their cancer, like many chronic illnesses, has been brought under control.

Remember that statistics and averages are based on many thousands of cases, and even the same kind of cancer rarely behaves in exactly the same way. The outcome of your sister's disease cannot be predicted accurately. Her outcome depends on how her cancer responds to treatment, her general physical health, her immune system, possibly her mental health, and some believe, even her will to live.

Religious or spiritual beliefs may help some patients gain a sense of hope. Others may be encouraged by medical success stories. Many patients feel more optimistic after they have talked with cancer survivors who have completed their treatment and returned to their usual everyday routines.

Whether a cancer patient's level of hope affects the outcome of the illness has been debated for a long time. However, there is little doubt that a positive attitude and a hopeful outlook can enhance the quality of the patient's life.

For more information on living with cancer, call the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER and ask for a free copy of "Taking Time."

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