Ask your oncology professional whether there are any clinical trials taking place for your type of cancer. If you're eligible for the trial, you may be able to receive a free experimental treatment for your cancer; in fact, you may even be paid. Just beware the possibility that you may be placed in a control group that gets a placebo, rather than real treatment.

Most cancer patients need a team of oncologists, rather than just one. In most cases, you'll need a surgical oncologist, a medical oncologist, and a radiation oncologist at the very least, and even with them on your side you'll need various nurses, practitioners, and other professionals to help.

Cancer is no longer a death sentence, because medical science continues to advance at a rapid pace. A good oncologist -- or a team of several -- can help you navigate your way though the obstacle course of treatment and recovery, so don't give up. You don't have to.