The First 72 Hours

Right now, you only need to handle the next few steps — not everything. This is the short list of what matters in the first three days. Take it one step at a time.

In the first few hours

• Breathe. You don’t have to make every decision today.
• Bring someone with you to appointments — a second set of ears helps.
• Start one notebook (or a notes app). Write down names, what the doctors say, and questions as they come.
• Start a folder for paperwork — every form, every business card.

Get the essentials from your care team

• Ask for the diagnosis and the care plan in writing.
• Get your care team’s names and the after-hours / urgent phone number.
• Ask: “Who is our main point of contact?”
• Ask what counts as an emergency, and what can wait until morning.

Tell only who you need to

• Pick one person to update family and friends, so you’re not repeating the hardest news over and over.
• It’s okay to keep your circle small right now.

Protect your job and income (this week)

• Let your employer know you’ll need some flexibility — you don’t have to share details.
• Ask about leave options; FMLA and paid family leave may apply. See Employment Help.

Insurance and money (this week)

• Call your insurance company; ask what’s covered and whether anything needs pre-approval.
• Start a bills folder. Don’t rush to pay anything you’re unsure about.
• Real help exists for treatment costs, housing, and utilities — see Financial, Government Assistance, and Housing.

Take care of yourself

• Eat something. Sleep when you can. Accept help when it’s offered.
• Caring for yourself is part of caring for them.

What can wait

Almost everything else. You’ll get to it. One step at a time.