FAQ’S for Firefighter Cancer Initial Diagnosis

Who should I contact after my initial diagnosis?

After your initial diagnosis there will be many questions running through you head and you will be filled with a lot of different emotions.  Write down all the questions that come to your mind because you will not hear any of the information the Dr. tells you after he gives you the initial diagnosis.  It will make it easier to ask theDr. follow-up questions if you have them written down. You may even want to take a friend, spouse, partner, etc to your appointments. They can help you understand and ask questions.

Of course, you may wish to contact close personal friends and/or family members for support. As Firefighters we have difficulty reaching out for help when we need it most. This is your time…ask for help in whatever form you need, but ask.

Once you have collected yourself and have notified your support network, it is important that you notify the CPFF.  The State of Colorado has a presumptive Cancer law, and you may be covered as part of Workman’s’ Compensation claim.  That is why it is extremely important to file a claim as soon as possible. The CPFF representative can guide you through the process and what all is needed.

We understand your life has just been turned upside down and you have a lot of things going on, but we can’t emphasize enough how important this step is. Trust us, in the long run it can make a difference. That is why the next person you should contact is your Local President. Advise them of the situation, and they should help walk you through the paperwork process as well.

Who can I call to make sure I am making the right decisions?

Family and friends can help you with making the right medical decisions. Or, there are other Firefighters who have been through this same process that you can contact if you choose.  The CPFF representative and your Local President can also help you find the resources and support you need.

What can I expect next in the way of treatments if my treatment plan includes Chemotherapy and/or Radiation?

These types of treatment regimen vary by dosage and length depending on the  type of cancer and the individual patient.  Your Oncologist can provide you with those answers.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you have a spouse, partner, close friend or family member let them be involved and ask questions too.  There may be so many things running through your head that you may forget a question you wanted to ask.

Where can I get support?

Family, Friends, Clergy, co-workers are good means of support. There are professional support systems out there too.  Just ask your Oncologist for references.

The Colorado Firefighter’s have also created a support network of Firefighters who are cancer survivors that are available should you have any questions. They might be able to talk to you about their experiences and what to expect. They can also pass along tips and tricks they learned while going through their battle.

Also, the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN) has a website loaded with information that may be off help. Their website is: http://www.firefightercancersupport.org/

Everyone is different and seeks help in different places.

Should I apply for a Workers Compensation claim?

Yes.  As stated earlier, Colorado has a presumptive Cancer law covering firefighters and your case may be covered. The CPFF  representative and your Local President can guide you through the claim process.  The CPFF can provide you with a consultation with a lawyer to see if your claim meets the criteria of the Statute. And the legal expert can help you with the claim and hearing process down the road.  This is a benefit to you as a member of the CPFF.

Who can help me with the paperwork and is there a lot of it?

This depends on your organization. Surely your Local President can assist you and be your Liaison with your Department.  Some Departments have substantial staff to assist researching prior exposures for example. They may be able to generate data reports on your past exposures.  But, some departments may not wish to become involved. This is where your Local President and his Executive Board can help. Also, be prepared for the insurance company to ask for a list of all the doctors you have seen within the past 5 years.  You will need to sign waivers (HIPPA) so they can access your records. This is normal fact finding on their part. It would be in your best interest to cooperate with their requests.  Of course legal counsel can guide you on these issues.

Finally, don’t be surprised if your WC claim is rejected. Don’t take it personal and let this depress you.  This is typical now since the law is so new. The insurance companies appear to be challenging firefighter cancer cases.

Can I go to my own doctor for treatment?

Yes. If you have an Oncologist you like or has been referred to you, and his services fall under your Department’s Health Insurance Company, then stay with this Doctor and his treatment plan.  Remember, you will be covered under your regular healthcare plan, until the Workman’s Compensation Case is resolved. And this could take time. Seek the treatment and Doctors you need to make yourself better. Take care of yourself as your health is number one.

How will this affect my spouse/partner/family/friends?

This can and will be a difficult time for everyone affected by your disease.  Keep those important to you close by and seek out neutral support networks or professional help if you need it. Do not hesitate to ask for help. Urge your spouse/partner/family to seek support and “time out” if they need it.

In times like these you may have a multitude of friends wanting to help with chores, meals, and errands.  Although they all have good intentions, this can become overwhelming for you and your family. A good way to manage this is to have a friend or co-worker act as a Liaison who can coordinate and schedule  the requests for help. There are also websites available that can act as a clearinghouse to post updates on your health, treatment and progress.

People will also want to know how you are doing. How you handle this is completely up to you. Some people like a lot of phone calls, while others prefer their quiet and privacy. You may wish to start a blog to keep your friends and family informed. There are websites that offer this service so others can write to you and also be updated on your progress.

The bottom line is you are in control. Don’t be afraid to say “no” to requests for help. Your friends and family love and care about you and will understand.  They want what is best for you.

What do I do next?

Do whatever you need to take care of yourself. Your health is number one priority now.  Seek out a Doctor and treatment plan you feel good about.  Surround yourself with a strong support network. As firefighters this should not be too difficult as we usually come together to take care of our own in times of need.  Let people help you. But don’t let it overwhelm you. Your Local can be a great resource to manage people who are asking to help. Hopefully, by now you have contacted your Local to assist you with filing your workman’s compensation claim.