How can I help someone with cancer?
There are many ways to help someone with cancer. Every situation is different, and there is no one way that works best. Caregivers may be family or friends. People of different backgrounds give care in their own way.
According to the National Cancer Institute, caregiving may include:
- Helping with day-to-day activities such as doctor visits or preparing food.
- Giving medicines or helping with physical therapy or other clinical tasks.
- Helping with tasks of daily living such as using the bathroom or bathing.
- Coordinating care and services from a distance by phone or email.
- Giving emotional and spiritual support.
Even if you live far away, you can still give real support as a problem-solver and care coordinator. Stay in touch with one or two key members of the care team. Keep a list of local people you can call. Organize the important paperwork.
It also helps to understand your loved one's situation. Knowing the type and stage of cancer, and what to expect during treatment, can make you feel more confident. And remember to care for yourself, too. If you do not take care of yourself, you will not be able to take care of others. Sharing your feelings, joining a support group, or seeing a counselor can help you cope.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Caring for Someone with Cancer
Know someone who needs this?
Plenty of people are looking for something like this and do not know where to start. If this would help a friend or someone you love, send it on — we have written an opening line so you do not have to stare at an empty message. You can change every word of it.
Your message is written and sent in your own email or messaging app — we never see who you send it to, and nothing is added to any list.