🌱 Newly Diagnosed? Start Here.

A simple guide to help you take the first steps after a cancer diagnosis

A step-by-step guide to help you take control during the most overwhelming stage

Your Progress

0 of 24 essential steps completed

💙 You're Not Alone — This Checklist Helps You Take Control

Reduces overwhelm with clear action steps

Ensures nothing is missed in the critical first weeks

Empowers you to ask the right questions

Organizes medical records and information

Prepares you for treatment decisions

Connects you to resources and support

Within the First Few Days

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Get a copy of the pathology report

Confirm diagnosis, stage, and grade

Request biomarker/genetic testing

Gather copies of all imaging

Understanding Your Diagnosis

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Ask your oncologist to explain your cancer subtype

Understand what your stage means

Learn whether biomarkers affect treatment

Request written information to take home

Building Your Care Team

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Identify your lead oncologist

Ask if tumor board review is recommended

Consider a second opinion (locally or nationally)

Determine whether you need a surgeon, radiation oncologist, or genetic counselor

Preparing for Treatment

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Understand treatment goals (curative? control?)

Learn treatment options (chemo, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, trials)

Ask about side effects and timelines

Understand fertility preservation (if relevant)

Clinical Trial Checklist

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Search active trials for your cancer

Review biomarker eligibility

Discuss with your oncologist

Prepare medical records for screening

Logistics & Support

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Organize medical records

Arrange transportation for appointments

Build your support system

Identify financial or insurance support resources

Essential Questions to Ask Your Doctor

What is my exact diagnosis?

Cancer type, subtype, stage, and grade

What are my treatment options?

Surgery, chemo, radiation, immunotherapy, trials

What biomarker testing do I need?

Genetic mutations, PD-L1, MSI, TMB, etc.

Should I get a second opinion?

Especially for rare or complex cancers

Are there clinical trials for me?

New treatments you might qualify for

What's my timeline?

When does treatment start, how long will it take

Find Specialists

Search top oncologists by cancer type and location

Clinical Trials

Find active trials recruiting patients now

Learn About Your Cancer

Explore 100+ cancer types in plain language

You've Got This — One Step at a Time

This checklist helps thousands of newly diagnosed patients take control of their cancer journey. You're not alone.