When a life threatening disease like cancer is first diagnosed it is a shock for all family members. Most of us grow up thinking cancer is a disease associated with old, sick people, not fit and vibrant young people. But as some of us have discovered the disease affects all ages from infancy to old age. Being confronted with a cancer diagnosis immediately creates both physical and emotional challenges.

The initial shock of a cancer diagnosis can cause a number of strong emotions for the person diagnosed as well as their family and friends. Emotions may include fear, helplessness, anger, loneliness, denial, hope and confusion. A diagnosis may seem unfair and questions like “Why is this happening, why me, what did I do wrong?” are often asked. The reality is no one can clearly answer those questions. Cancer can happen to anyone at any time. More specifically there are no types of behaviours that are linked to or result in adolescent cancer. Recovery from these emotions may slowly take place. Each individual will react and cope in their own unique way. Some people seem to accept it almost immediately, while others take a lot longer to adapt. It is important to understand that no particular emotion or intensity of emotions is the right or wrong way of dealing with a cancer diagnosis.