FAQ's

Q. I have been diagnosed with cancer, what do I do?

Call our Tulips expat cancer support line: 0548 870 2276. We are here to help, advise and support you.

 

Q. What will happen next?

Our expat cancer support worker will arrange an initial meeting with you where a Tulips membership form will be completed of which there is no cost to become a member of Tulips. We will ask personal information ie medical history & diagnosis, all information will be kept confidential. We will discuss your needs and how Tulips can best help you.

 

Q. What if I do not want to go through Tulips?

We ask everyone who has just been diagnosed to contact Tulips and use us as an information gathering tool. You will hear many stories from many people but it is Tulips that deals with cancer patients and treatments daily. We will gladly assist you in anyway so that you can make an informed decision about what, where and if you want treatment.

 

Q.  I have been diagnosed with cancer. Can I get a 2nd opinion?

Yes, we can arrange an appointment with a different oncologist & hospital.

 

Q. What support can I get from tulips?

We will collect your prescriptions & arrange for them to be delivered to the hospital you’re having treatment. We can arrange your appointments if you so wish. We will offer support & guidance throughout your treatment, answering any questions/concerns you may have.

 

Q. How long will it take to get an appointment?

We can usually get an appointment for your in 24 to 48 hours.

 

Q. Where is the best place to go for treatment?

The choice would be yours but after all your tests have been completed and a 2nd opinion sought if you so wish, the patient usually has decided where they wish for their treatment to be.

 

Q. what side effects will I get from chemotherapy?

Every individual is different; some people have little or no side effects. Some may feel nausea/ be sick, constipation/diarrhea, fatigue, loss if hair. You must discuss any side effects that you are concerned about with your consultant will be able to prescribe medication to assist you.

 

Q. How much will my treatment be?

We won't know until your prescription has been taken to the pharmacy.

 

Q. Can I drive immediately after chemotherapy?

We would advise not to as everyone will react differently to their treatment but assess how you feel a couple of days later

 

Q. Should I avoid any food?

When you go for your first treatment, you will get a list of foods to avoid / eat. You may also get a visit whilst having treatment from the pharmacist.

 

Q. Can I travel whilst having treatment?

You would have to discuss this with your consultant but be aware that your immune system will be low leaving you open to infection.

 

 

Q. What if the treatment doesn't work?

Your consultant will request for you to have a PET SCAN either half way through or at the end of your treatment to see if the chemotherapy is working & will discuss the options available to you.

 

Q. Will Tulips provide support at hospital?

Yes we have dedicated Tulips staff at the hospital that provide support and guidance.

 

Q. How long will the treatment take?

Each individual’s diagnosis and treatment plan is different so it really depends on the consultant's treatment plan.

 

Q. If there is a language barrier do Tulips offer an interpreter?

Yes, we do.

 

Q. Is there wheelchair access at hospital?

Yes there is wheelchair access at hospital.

 

Q. If I cannot drive to hospital or have no one to take me will Tulips be able to arrange transport?

Depending on the availability of nurses in some cases this may be arranged.

 

Q. How can I help tulips?

You can organise fund raising events and donations are always appreciated. Also any unwanted clothes/ books/household items etc can also be used to raise money for Tulips. If you need help with any of this then please do not hesitate to call 0542 854 8714 we would be delighted to hear from you.