We all have to go through the 5 stages of grief many times in our lives. One of the most important for us is to grieve for our lost lives and lost health. A diagnosis of Chronic Pancreatitis takes away so many things from our lives. The most critical of them is hope. We need to grieve for the loss of our "life as we know it".
Five Stages of Grief
The first stage is denial
Upon hearing the diagnosis, the patient reacts with a shocked, "No, not me." According to Dr.Kubler-Ross, this is a healthy stage, and permits the patient and the family to develop other defenses.
Next comes anger or resentment
"Why me?" is the question asked now. "Why my child?" Blame, directed against the doctor, nurses and God often is a part of this stage. This outcry should be accepted, unjudged.
The third stage is bargaining
"Yes me, but-" "If you'll just let me/him/her be well, God, I'll . . ." This Dr. Kubler-Ross calls a period of temporary truce.
The fourth stage is depression
Now the person says, "Yes, me," with the courage to admit that it is happening; this acknowledgment brings depression. (Note: The family often goes through all the stages, along with the patient.)
Finally comes acceptance
A time of facing serious illness or death calmly. This is often a difficult time for the family, since the patient tends to withdraw, to be silent.
Chuck