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I’ve Been Diagnosed With Ovarian Cancer — What Now?

Any serious diagnosis is challenging to handle. From the emotional fallout to physical symptoms, it can be hard to adjust to living with it. And, if it's a terminal illness, it can get harder. There are several stages of ovarian cancer—and not all of them are terminal. However, it can still be tough to cope with a diagnosis. 

The first thing to do is give yourself some time to process your diagnosis. You can't control every aspect, so don't try to fix how you feel. If you need to do so, get some emotional support. It can be in the form of live chat therapy. Or, try confiding in family members. After this, you may want to consider insurance, viatical settlements, and treatment options. There are other things that can make the process more comfortable too. Here is what you should consider doing after your diagnosis. 

Ask about clinical trials. 

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A clinical trial is not the right option for everyone. However, if you want to participate in one—ask sooner rather than later. It isn't a sure-shot way to change how long a person lives. However, new treatments have benefits, even if they need some additional testing. While they do have risks, so do medications and surgeries. 

The best way to see if this is right for you is to ask your doctor. While there are trials for every stage, they may not be worth it for some cases. Some clinical trials are free, but others need you to cover patient costs. An insurance company can tell you if you're covered by insurance for the trial. If not, a financial planner can help assess how affordable it will be for you. And, remember that you can leave a trial midway if it isn't for you.

Consider the financial costs.

Treatment for an illness can be a financial burden. Ask a financial planner to help you navigate the costs as early as possible. You may be eligible for a premium finance loan or a life settlement. 

If health insurance doesn't give you full coverage, consider a viatical settlement. A viatical settlement provider can buy your life insurance policy. The cash value of this policy can help with medical expenses. And, the death benefit can help your family as well. 

It's essential to get a reasonable cash payment for your life insurance policy. Ask a viatical settlement broker to help you find the best cash payment. Before you sign a written agreement, check the cash value of your plan with a third party. 

Don't ignore your body.

Ovarian cancer can leave you feeling excessively fatigued. Don't let this stop you from staying active and healthy. Exercise won't cure ovarian cancer, but it can reduce the risk of fatality. And, a small amount of daily activity can help ease some of the symptoms. Try to walk short distances, or do some yoga. Physiotherapy can help as well. And, remember not to ignore your diet either. Limit fatty foods and meat, and consume more fresh, wholesome food. Staying healthy is a crucial way to fight the disease. 

Update your underwear.

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Ovarian cancer can lead to discomfort. You may feel abdominal pain, have kidney issues, and experience unexpected weight loss. So, remember to update your wardrobe after your diagnosis. Not only will an update perk you up, but comfier clothes will also help during your illness. 

A breathable bra or sports bra will also help. You may begin to experience frequent urination. So, you may need to start wearing incontinence underwear. Even if you don't need special underwear—ditch the thongs, bikini underwear, and pretty panties. Invest in some comfortable women's underwear instead. It doesn't have to be uninteresting. Comfortable underwear can be stylish too. Pick no-panty line options in pretty patterns or boy shorts for comfort and style.

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