It is a rough time dealing with all the recent meso losses. One of the "themes" for lack of a better word, was the feeling caregivers have of hopelessness and helplessness. I just came across a tool which helped tremendously when we were battling through trying to survive and understand what was happening. Before the Meso Foundation hired Mary, meso patients were pretty much on their own for how to cope. Somewhere I came across the "Cancer Survival Toolbox". It gave us information that we, at the time couldn't find anywhere. A free source that had a tape (now a CD and mp3 download) for the Caregiver.It is actually a 10 CD series on all aspects of cancer. It was literally a life saver for my husband and daughter (my caregivers) with easy to understand information and suggestions how they could cope with my cancer.
I hope whoever is in the role of caregiver can glean some information from this. Having the help from the Meso Foundation has made such a big difference and impact between now and then, but everyone still needs to have this type of vital help to get them through their trials and caregiving. I have listed the website if anyone is interested in getting this. One other item is the free magazine "Cure" which I also find has wonderful articles cancer patients can identify with. Being informed is important to advocate for yourself and loved ones.
I wish I could hug each and every one of you that has to go through dealing with meso (and any other cancer)
http://www.canceradvocacy.org/toolbox/
Keep on Believing!

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HUGS
bonnie
Peritoneal survivor 10 YEARS

Hi Bonnie- Thanks for the information. I just spent the last two hours going over a lot of the information presented and found LOTS of useful information that I didn't know, even after six years of being a totally involved caregiver. After all this time you would think that I would at least know how to address many of the issues we are presented with, but I for one am guilty of taking on all of the responsibilities for the entire house hold, not only Lisa and myself, but for the other members of our family. Very overwhelming, yet this Toolbox has given me some good ideas and direction as to how to begin handling some situations with Lisa's upcoming surgeries. Thanks again for posting. Oh yeah, one of the most convincing facts for me that these things work is what you sign after your name- peritoneal survivor- TEN YEARS!. Very inspiring. Stay Strong Mike

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Mike, Partner/Caregiver of Lisa, dx 3/06 peritoneal mesothelioma

Thanks Mike. Glad you can use some of the pointers it contains. Keep us in the loop on Lisa. I hope it is an easy in easy out, she is such a trooper.

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HUGS
bonnie
Peritoneal survivor 10 YEARS

Mike & Lisa I want you to know you are in my prayers and I'm pulling for you. Ten years. You're doing something right! All the best.
Diane

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Diane
Caregiver of Thomas (my Dad,82)
Pleural epithelial meso
dx 11/10
Our battle ended March 16, 2012. Together.

Also all caregivers are welcome to join our caregiver support group calls. Just contact me to get on the list. Mary mhesdorffer@curemeso.org

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Mary Hesdorffer, NP
Medical Liaison, Mesothelioma Foundation