MDS is a bone marrow failure disorder
Spirituality

Spirituality is an important aspect of living with cancer, including MDS. There is a growing body of evidence indicating that spiritual practices are associated with better health and wellbeing.

Spirituality is a broad concept that is defined in several diverse ways.  In general, it includes a sense of connection to something bigger than ourselves, and it typically involves a search for meaning in life. As such, it is a universal human experience—something that touches us all.

Some may find that their spiritual life is intricately linked to their association with a church, temple, mosque, or synagogue. Others may pray or find comfort in a personal relationship with God or a higher power. Still others seek meaning through their connections to nature or art or other aspects of their life or environment.

Things you can do:

  1. Discuss your spirituality and beliefs with your health care provider. They may direct you to other resources within the care environment to help you.
  2. Many cancer centers have programs for supportive care or integrative medicine that include classes for meditation, yoga, and mindfulness.
  3. Journaling may help you with reflection.
  4. If you are a member of a church, temple, mosque, synagogue or other religious organization, speak to the leaders of your organization about resources available to you.
  5. Maintain friendships and activities as much as possible. Connections to others is important to your overall health.  This can be by phone, using digital media, or in person.

Additional Resources:

MDS Foundation:  multisite-demo.com      www.BuildingBlocksofHope.com

American Cancer Society:  Sources of Support
https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/advanced-cancer/sources-of-support.html

Cancer Care: Spiritualityhttp://www.cancercare.org/tagged/spirituality

Oncolink: Spiritualityhttps://www.oncolink.org/support/practical-and-emotional/integrative-therapies-spirituality/tips-in-a-minute-addressing-spiritual-concerns-across-the-cancer-continuum

Review answers to commonly asked questions or get answers to your questions from an MDS expert