Stay connected
The people, experiences, and activities that make you feel good can have a positive impact. Digital apps and calendars can help keep track of appointments, medications, or other important moments and dates.
Living with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC)
Staying connected
Platinum resistance is a common experience for many women with ovarian cancer
Oncologists and care teams are intimately familiar and highly skilled in dealing with the challenges of platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. Your care team is there to provide guidance and support.Connecting with patient advocacy organizations, as
well as other people with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer and their caregivers, can help create a strong support system beyond your immediate family and friends. Hearing the perspectives of others can have a significant impact on your future outlook.
Rachel's reflections on ovarian cancer
Listen as she recognizes the power of gratitude
Audio Testimonial
I have a lot of gratitude. I have a lot of anger. I experience every possible emotion on a roller coaster, and I'm hoping that every other patient is able to acknowledge that and understand that it's very real and very normal. But having gratitude for my friends, my family, and my medical team, it's not even measurable; it is so huge. And having gratitude for my medical team and their patience with me, as we navigate each time something happens to me and what my choices are and what they have access to and their willingness to listen and learn and investigate something. That, as smart and knowledgeable as they are, they can't know everything. And so I'm really thankful that they hear me.
Facing the burdens of platinum-resistant ovarian cancer
It is important to be realistic about the many personal and practical challenges that come with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. Be sure to talk openly with your care team about how you are feeling and if you need help coping with challenges, such as:
Physical
Side effects and symptoms from your treatment or the cancer
Social
Feelings of isolation, challenges with intimacy, and mental fatigue
Professional/
financial weight
Difficulties continuing work and worry about finances
Emotional
Fear, anxiety, or depression
Easing the burden
Lifestyle changes may make your journey with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer more manageable.
Give space for your emotions
It’s common to focus on how your body feels, but you’re facing something that can strain your emotional and mental health, too. Meditation and counseling are great ways that you can show up for yourself.
Rest and recharge
Chemotherapy can be hard on the body; knowing when to take a break is important.
Your mindset
Maintaining the right mindset
Focusing on what you can control is a good way to stay positive when faced with the challenges of platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.Remember—you know your body and your needs better than anyone. While it can be intimidating to ask questions or offer your perspective in the moment, it's important to advocate and speak up for yourself at your appointments. This way, you and your care team can work together to find the best way forward for you.Use this guide to prepare to speak with your care team about managing life with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer.
“I try to tell [patients] what they might experience, but then also give them hope that there's support there for them. That me and my team, we're there for them.”
—Dr. Dana Chase, an oncologist treating women with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer
