Blog

March 1, 2020

By Anne Dabbs, 
NCAN TN Chapter Leader, NET Patient

Let’s talk about the elephant, I mean zebra in the room. COVID-19 and NETs don’t mix.

And while we are looking to the CDC and our individual health care providers for guidance and monitoring, it’s also important that we, as a Neuroendocrine Community, use our internal barometer to calculate our responses to the ever changing health events going on at this time.

As we assess our Neuroendocrine Cancer position of having at least one high risk qualifier, it is important that we also monitor our mind set. Structuring our thinking to avoid the panic in Pandemic is essential. While “watch and wait” is frequently perceived as a negative response with our NETs treatment plans, in light of the Coronavirus, adopting an “active surveillance” stance, might not be a bad way to go. Positioning ourselves to be able to respond with clarity, rather than panic and fear, would be the smarter choice.

My own personal stance has been one of nonchalant awareness. I had purchased household provisions 2 weeks ago, and was aware, informed, and prepared. Then, one phone call had me reassessing my situation with the realization that I am in 3 high risk categories for this disease, not 1. So, in the blink of an eye, my reality became crystal clear. And in that moment, it was time for me to social distance myself.

Self quarantine or social distancing might not be right for everyone. For some, it’s a luxury they can afford. For others, an absolute necessity. Each of us will need to choose for ourselves. One thing we know for sure, is that all of us will be effected by Coronavirus’s ripple effect. And, as we consult our individual barometers, let us also be mindful of the ripple effect of compassion for those who do not necessarily agree with our decisions. Kindness, a cure for many ailments, is infectious also.

Take care of yourselves. And if you need some extra support feel free to call the NCAN Hotline at (866) 850-9555.

Find out more about how YOU can help the NET Community.

Disclaimer: NCAN blog posts are the opinions of its writers and are not intended as a replacement for medical advice. Please consult your Health Care Providers for individual concerns.