Many people feel helpless when they are first told they have cancer. They think there is nothing they can do other than hand themselves over to the doctors and hospital. This is not true. There are many things that you can do at this time.

If you and your family understand your illness and its treatment you will be better able to cope.

Always ask for information that is personal to you from your own doctors.

Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Take your medication. If you forget and are not sure what to do ask your doctor. Write down the answers if you want.

Let your doctor know if you have any problems or worrying side effects. He or she can decide what to do to help you. If you say nothing a small problem can become more serious.

After 3 or 4 cycles of treatment you may feel much better. You may question the need for further treatment. Finishing your course of treatment with as few delays as possible between cycles is most important. Not completing the treatment may leave some cancer cells untreated. This may affect the outcome of treatment.

At times you may not be able to do the things you used to take for granted. As you begin to feel better you can set yourself some simple goals and slowly build your confidence again. Take one step at a time. Many people talk about "fighting their cancer". This can help some people feel more in control of what is happening to them. You can do this by becoming involved in your illness.

Try to eat as well as you can. Eat little and often using lots of different types of foods with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Think about joining a ‘support group’. These groups allow you to talk through your feelings with others who have been diagnosed and treated for cancer. Lymphoma Support Ireland (LSI) is the support group for patients with Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It provides patients and relatives with information, advice and emotional support at time of diagnosis, throughout treatment and afterwards.

Join a relaxation class or listen to relaxation tapes.

Take some regular exercise. Take it easy at first, building up the amount you do, as you feel stronger.

Some people find it helpful to talk to a counsellor.

If the idea of changing your diet or taking exercise does not appeal to you, don’t do it. Just do whatever suits you. Some people find pleasure in keeping to their normal routine as much as possible. Others prefer to take a holiday or spend more time on a hobby.