Caregiver Resources & Materials
The Vital Role of the Caregiver
Caring for a friend or loved one with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) can be one of the most important challenges an individual may encounter. The major role of the caregiver is to understand care needs and support the patient.
By selecting any of the links below, you will be going to a site that is not controlled by or affiliated with Genentech, Inc. or Biogen Idec, Inc.
Genentech, Inc. and Biogen Idec, Inc. are neither affiliated with nor endorse any of the following organizations. The information provided by Genentech, Biogen Idec, or these organizations is meant for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace your physician's medical advice. Most of the contact phone numbers are toll free. Many of these organizations can refer you to a local chapter for more information.
Caregiving involves listening to the concerns and fears of the patient and providing vital clinical support and reassurance every step of the way throughout NHL treatment. In many situations, the caregiver assists on the patient's behalf with the healthcare team to help provide constant physical and emotional support.
Caregiver Tips to Help Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Patients
A caregiver plays an important role in looking after and supporting a loved one who is going through NHL therapy. A caregiver provides physical and emotional support to patients and helps them through therapy. One of your main roles may be to help your loved one work with the healthcare team:
- Attend doctor appointments with your loved one
- Gather and share information about diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis
- Ask healthcare professionals questions about side effects, treatment options and procedures, test results, and any other relevant topics
- Look to patient advocacy groups (such as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and the Lymphoma Research Foundation) and other resources for more information
- Meet other patients who are dealing with NHL. Local patient advocacy groups often have meetings to facilitate such relationships
- Inquire about NHL patients who are willing to share their experiences
- Make sure the patient is getting the proper nutrition through a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Eating the right kinds of foods can help your loved one feel better and stay stronger
- Keep a journal of the patient's appointments, notes, and treatments
Caregiving also means giving emotional support to your loved one throughout therapy.
- Talk to your loved one and let him or her know you are there to help
- Listen to and help your loved one work through many feelings that he or she may be experiencing
- Maintain a strong relationship with your loved one. It is important to consistently provide hope, comfort, and encouragement
Care for the Caregiver
Caregiving also means taking good care of yourself. Caregivers often exhaust themselves by trying to handle caregiving responsibilities on top of normal daily routines. When you are fully rested, you will be able to make better decisions.
To be an effective caregiver, it is important that you take time to care for yourself. Caring for yourself gives you the energy and strength to meet the needs of others. Eat well-balanced meals and find time to exercise even if it's only a short walk every day. Get plenty of rest and take steps to manage stress. Make time to do things you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, and writing. Breathing exercises, meditation, massages, and yoga are some activities that canrelax your mind and body.
It is also helpful to talk to members of the healthcare team about resources available for caregivers, including support services and activity programs.
Caregiver Resources
The following resources offer information about being a caregiver and providing support for patients with NHL.
By selecting any of the links below, you will be going to a site that is not controlled by or affiliated with Genentech, Inc. or Biogen Idec, Inc.
Genentech, Inc. and Biogen Idec, Inc. are neither affiliated with nor endorse any of the following organizations. The information provided by Genentech, Biogen Idec, or these organizations is meant for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace your physician's medical advice. Most of the contact phone numbers are toll free. Many of these organizations can refer you to a local chapter for more information.
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
(800) 4CANCER (422-6237)
www.cancer.gov
Cancer Care, Inc.
(800) 813-HOPE (4673)
www.cancercare.org
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS)
(800) 955-4572
www.leukemia-lymphoma.org
Living With Lymphoma
www.livingwithlymphoma.com
Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF)
(800) 500-9976
www.lymphoma.org
INDICATIONS
RITUXAN® (rituximab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with:
- Relapsed or refractory, low-grade or follicular, CD20-positive, B-cell NHL as a single agent
- Previously untreated follicular, CD20-positive, B-cell NHL in combination with CVP chemotherapy
- Non-progressing (including stable disease), low-grade, CD20-positive B-cell NHL, as a single agent, after first-line CVP chemotherapy
- Previously untreated diffuse large B-cell, CD20-positive NHL in combination with CHOP or other anthracycline-based chemotherapy regimens
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
RITUXAN can cause serious side effects, some of which can be life-threatening, including: Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML), infusion reactions, Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS), and severe skin reactions. Other serious and life-threatening side effects with RITUXAN include: hepatitis B virus reactivation, heart problems, infections, and stomach and bowel problems. Common side effects during RITUXAN infusions include: fever, headache, chills and shakes, nausea, itching, hives, cough, sneezing, and throat irritation or tightness.
Tell your doctor about any side effects that bother you or that do not go away. These are not all of the possible side effects with RITUXAN. Ask your doctor for more information.
Please read the Medication Guide in HTML or PDF versions for more information.
