"The ultimate goal is for you to have your life so organized that you can deal with cancer treatment almost on autopilot." Wouldn't that be great? Everyone's cancer experience is different, to be sure, but there are some key parts of your life that if you organize them right, it will make your life a lot simpler. And fitting your job into all of it is only a small part. According to Dr. Richard Frank, there are 7 main players to organize:

1. Organize your treatment. Choose oncologists and treatment centers that fit with your personal needs.
2. Organize your loved ones. The more united your loved ones are behind you, the stronger you will be throughout this ordeal.
3. Organize your support system. Don't be afraid to ask for help with chores, transportation, meals, you name it.
4. Organize your mind. Avoid negative people and pursue tranquility. Celebrate the little wins and laugh as much as possible.
5. Organize your work. Know your options: part-time, working from home, short- or long-term disability, etc.
6. Organize your finances. Now is a better time than ever to learn what's covered by your insurance, and to make sure your loved ones are cared for.
7. Organize your time. Make sure regardless of what all the above issues bring to light, it's important to make time for yourself.

For more concrete tips on organizing your work life and your cancer, check out these articles:
http://cancerandcareers.org/women/taking_charge/getting_organized/
http://www.cancerandcareers.org/en/at-work/creating-an-action-plan

These great tips (and more!) can be found on p. 24 of the February issue of Coping with Cancer magazine.