When Jim was undergoing cancer treatment, I learned the patient needs all the support he/she needs both physically, emotionally, and as an advocate with the medical teams because at that point the patient's ears are turned to "mute" as far as hearing and remembering important information. I learned the line was fine between advocating and being combative. Being ready with questions prevents that "deer in the headlights" reaction when faced with news either bad or good. I was fortunate to be able to see the results of Jim's tests on the medical center's portal so we could be prepared in advance. Had we not known the pre-visit tests were going to be so terrible on one of his last oncology visits, we would have been gobsmacked and struck dumb. Instead we were emotionally prepared as well as we could be under the circumstances and ready to ask questions instead of falling to pieces. Would recommend if anyone has a portal to see medical visit reports or results that they be read in advance or directly after an appointment.