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Family and cancer care: stories from the University of Maryland Medical Center
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Photo/ Nancy Eason
Many of us are celebrating renewal at this time of year. For family members who have cancer survivors, the celebration means an additional fresh start.
I, too, have a family member who just completed the ordeal of radiation and chemotherapy for oral cancer. He is just now able to taste one flavor a little bit -- chocolate. We're hoping that he'll be able to savor a chocolate egg to celebrate the season. There's nothing like chocolate to restore body and soul.
It's uplifting to read about the head and neck cancer success stories on the University of Maryland School of Medicine's (UMSOM) Web site. My family joins others in offering praises for the incredible care received from Dr. Robert Ord, chief and professor of oral and maxillofacial surgery, UMSOM, Greenebaum Cancer Center. It's not only Dr. Ord's Scottish lilt that perks you up; it's the complete package of professional skills and care received from the oral cancer specialists and staff. Dr. Ord, who is known internationally as one of the best physicians for oral cancer treatment, is helping many patients and their families cope, hope and thrive.
The healing environment offered through the Stoler Pavilion in the Greenebaum Cancer Center is also helpful. Family members waiting for loved ones in surgery are able to bask in the multi-storied solarium in peace. Staff understand the importance of considering the family's needs, as well as including family as members of the team for the patient's care and recovery.
Beyond being part of the medical treatment, all family members can add to the positive efforts toward recovery. It's a vital part of holding onto hope for a cure. There are the delivery of get well wishes and prayers for healing, gifts of bright flowers and carefully selected foods, assistance with transportation for treatments, simple calls and emails relating others' news as usual, and the hugs and caresses. Even the littlest family members can add a bright touch of optimism through a brief telephone call, pod cast viewing or delivery of artwork.
Not too long ago, I heard about the day that my relative arrived home to find a door-sized paper sign taped in the entryway with gigantic lettering proclaiming, "We love you, Pop Pop." The sign is now a bit tattered and weather-worn but is still present in the celebration of life.
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