20 ways to support someone with cancer

If you have a friend or loved one with cancer, you know that it’s not always easy to show affection and solidarity while facing the hardships of illness. While it’s not possible to solve every problem, here are 20 ways to offer moral support and help with the practical aspects of living with cancer.




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Be present

Your loved one’s cancer diagnosis will probably come as a shock. Let them know they can count on you to be there for them throughout the treatment process.

Be sure to stay in touch by visiting or, if that’s not possible, by phoning or writing. You may not be able to see each other in person—especially during the pandemic—but you can still show your loved one that they’re not in this alone.




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Listen

Everybody is different, and reactions to a cancer diagnosis will vary from person to person. Let your loved one respond in their own way. “If your friend wants to talk, be ready to listen. If you don’t know what to say, let them lead. There’s no need to offer advice or opinions unless you’re asked,” advises the Cancer Society.




Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.


Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.


Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Set aside some time

Caring for a loved one with cancer requires a big time commitment. Your personal and professional life will probably be affected. Figure out early on how much time you can give, acknowledge your limitations, and ask others for help if necessary.




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Arrange transportation

A cancer diagnosis entails regular appointments at a doctor’s office, hospital, rehabilitation centre, and other treatment facilities. Because cancer treatments often have side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, and vomiting, patients may have trouble concentrating and be unable to drive. Whenever you can, offer to drive them to their appointments.




Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.


Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.


Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Ensure they take their medication

Along with surgery, chemotherapy, and other treatments, cancer patients may be prescribed supportive drugs to lessen side effects. Some treatments can cause fatigue and memory problems, so help your friend keep track of their medication by writing down what they need to take and when.




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Help with personal hygiene

You might be asked to help your loved one maintain good hygiene by assisting them with tasks like bathing, brushing their teeth, changing bandages, cutting their hair, and shaving. In addition to being good for their health, proper hygiene is essential for preserving their dignity.




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Respect their autonomy

Finding a balance between respecting your loved one’s independence and providing essential help it is important. Being overprotective may occasionally be upsetting. Don’t be hurt if that happens. Just know when to back off.




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Come up with distractions





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Understand the illness

Your loved one may want you to accompany them to medical appointments. If they ask you to come along, take advantage of this beneficial opportunity. Your presence may help them feel less anxious about the appointment, and you’ll gain a better understanding of their illness, symptoms, and treatment. It’s especially important that you understand what’s going on if your loved one is not able to process all of the information provided by the medical team.




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Keep track of their appointments

Living with cancer means making big changes to the way you spend your time. Your loved one will have to attend doctor’s appointments and possibly sessions of chemotherapy, radiology, rehabilitation, and psychological support. Take time to write down the date, time, and location of these appointments, especially if your loved one is having trouble with their memory or concentration.

This will help them out, reduce your own stress, and make you a more effective caregiver.




Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.


Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Be alert to symptoms

During the follow-up period after cancer treatment, objectives include watching out for the reappearance of cancerous cells and helping the patient regain a good quality of life. Keep an eye out for any symptoms, even those that seem benign, that could signal a relapse.




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Look for financial aid

Some people have to stop working due to illness. In many countries, social benefits and financial aid are available to help offset the cost of medical bills, but finding these resources takes time and effort. You can take this burden off your loved one by doing the research yourself.




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Take care of administrative tasks





Microsoft and partners may be compensated if you purchase something through recommended links in this article.

Support them through end-of-life care

If your loved one’s cancer is no longer treatable, your presence will be more important than ever as you face this final challenge together and create your last shared memories. Provide comfort to your loved one by talking, reading, or watching movies together, or simply being with them. The National Cancer Institute advises that you allow them to express their fears and concerns about dying, and be prepared to listen. Try to find a way to be there for them, while respecting public health measures.




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Take care of yourself

Try not to feel guilty if you feel the need to take some time for yourself. You won’t be very helpful to your loved one if you don’t take care of your own needs. The Canadian Cancer Society encourages caregivers to stay healthy by eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest. It’s also essential to find ways to cope with stress, take breaks, and ask for help when you need it.




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