Helping Someone With Cancer
Do you know someone with cancer? A cancer diagnosis can be
crippling in itself, inciting fear and anxiety over an unknown
or perhaps dreaded future. Victims worry about their health,
their looks, and their families when a doctor pronounces this
terrible sentence. If a friend or family member is struggling
with one of the many forms of cancer, your support and
encouragement are likely to be most welcome.
But how do you help someone who has cancer? There are several
things you can do to make your friend or loved one feel more at
ease.
1. Treat the person the same as always. Don't approach her
gingerly, as though she might break or fade away. Nor should you
overdo it, however, by talking too much or roughhousing with
children who may be physically fragile. Just treat the person
the same as you would if he had not been diagnosed with this
condition. Of course, if the diagnosis is grim, you need adapt
your attitude accordingly and not gloss over serious
implications.
2. Offer practical assistance. As you have time, run errands
or bring in a home-cooked meal. Grocery shopping, letter
mailing, and kid drop-offs at sporting events can save the sick
person's time and energy. Depending on how well you are
acquainted with the victim, you might want to come over a few
hours each week to clean house, baby-sit, or cook meals for
freezing.
3. Be an encouragement. Send a funny get-well card or an
inspiring note. Drop off a humorous video or suggest praying
together before you leave. Using discretion, you might want to
let others know about the ill person's indisposition so they can
possibly help out, too.
4. Be willing to listen. Sometimes those facing a serious
problem like cancer, especially when a terminal diagnosis has
been given, may simply want to reminisce about the past, discuss
future plans, or share difficult emotions. Just being available
to listen in person, by telephone, or via the Internet can
provide a beautiful source of support. Don't push or pry,
however. Wait until the person is ready to talk.
5. If the situation warrants, consider donating financial
support. A single mother with two fatherless children may need
to get connected to social service agencies. Or she may have
some general support already, but lack a little extra money for
holidays or birthdays. You may want to send a card with a $20
check that could help pay for special occasions or real needs,
needs, like medication, above and beyond any insurance coverage.
6. Provide transportation. If the person grows weak or is
unable to drive and family members work at jobs that keep them
from driving the sufferer to appointments, ask if you can take
the person when you are available. Getting around is one of the
greatest challenges facing people who become immobile with
serious illnesses.
Whatever your circumstances, chances are you can offer some
kind of help to a person who is struggling with cancer. It will
certainly be appreciated!