“I Googled It…”: Why Finding Answers Online Can Be Overwhelming—and How Ardynn Can Help
If you’ve ever typed your diagnosis into Google, you’re not alone. Most people facing cancer turn to the internet at some point, looking for answers, reassurance, or just something to help make sense of it all. It’s completely understandable. When you’re overwhelmed or scared, information feels like control. But here’s the problem: the internet doesn’t […]
When Patients Lead, Outcomes Improve
A cancer diagnosis brings more than medical decisions—it brings fear, uncertainty, and often, a feeling of lost control. But when people are invited to lead their treatment decisions, everything shifts. At Ardynn, we hear it all the time: “I didn’t know I could say no.”“I just wanted someone to explain it in a way that […]
When Treatment Reflects What Matters Most
After a cancer diagnosis, one of the first things many people hear is a list of treatment options. Surgery. Chemo. Radiation. Targeted therapy. Each comes with its own risks, benefits, and tradeoffs. But what’s often missing in these conversations is the question:What matters most to you? One of our members, a 67-year-old man living with […]
How to Have Tough Conversations About Cancer with Your Family and Friends
A cancer diagnosis changes everything—and often, one of the hardest parts is having to tell the people you love. These conversations can be deeply emotional, sometimes awkward, and often overwhelming. But they’re also essential. Sharing your diagnosis can help you build the support system you’ll need throughout your journey. At Ardynn, we often hear: “I […]
Best Ways to Support a Loved One with Cancer
When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, it can be a challenging time for everyone involved. As a friend or family member, you may feel unsure about how best to support them. The journey through cancer is deeply personal and complex, but your support can make a significant difference. Here are some thoughtful and […]
Your Preferences and Values Matter When It Comes to Treatment Decisions
When faced with a medical diagnosis, especially a serious one, making treatment decisions can be overwhelming. In these moments, it’s crucial to remember that your preferences and values play a central role in shaping your treatment journey. Medical decisions are not one-size-fits-all, and incorporating your personal beliefs, lifestyle, and goals can lead to better health […]
The Importance of Support for Caregivers
Caregivers play an essential role in the lives of those they support, often providing both emotional and practical care for loved ones facing illness, disability, or age-related challenges. While caregiving can be deeply rewarding, it can also be incredibly demanding and stressful. Supporting caregivers is crucial not only for their well-being but also for the […]
Confronting Racial Disparities in Cancer Care
Not everyone experiences cancer the same way. While the disease itself doesn’t discriminate, the systems surrounding diagnosis, treatment, and support too often do. Racial disparities in cancer care are a longstanding and unacceptable reality—affecting when cancer is found, what treatments are offered, and ultimately, who survives. This isn’t just a question of fairness. It’s a […]
Health Literacy: Learning the Cancer Lingo
Navigating the world of cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship can be overwhelming, especially for individuals who may not be familiar with the specialized language and terminology used in oncology. Health literacy, or the ability to understand and use health information to make informed decisions about one’s health, plays a crucial role in empowering patients and […]
Care Coordinators vs. Advocates: Understanding the Differences
There is much confusion around the roles of care coordinators and patient advocates, and we often get asked to explain the difference. In this post, we will discuss care coordinators and advocates and their distinct but complementary roles in improving patient outcomes and experiences. Care coordinators, also known as care managers or case managers, serve […]
