Taking action even in the smallest ways can provide meaningful support.
For the person who has cancer, support from family and friends is incredibly valuable.
If you havent experienced this personally, you may wonder how you could best support them.
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As a cancer survivor and medical professional, I know firsthand how invaluable this support is.
My cancer returned with a vengeance at age 33 shortly after the birth of my second child.
And Ive been living with rare cancer for the past 10 years.
Over the course of my 17-year cancer journey I have had multiple surgeries, treatments and secondary diagnoses.
Without my village, especially my husband, life would be much harder.
I didnt always know what I needed to thrive.
Truthfully, sometimes I still dont.
But time, experience and working with others have helped to identify key ways to support myself and others.
Hear from people who have been through treatment or are experiencing it now.
But, truth be told, this question may not be that helpful.
Additionally, people don’t want to put a burden on others or feel disempowered asking for help.
Instead of asking, just act.
A card, a text or a hug is often enough.
Stanfield says, To me, the greatest support is just knowing people are there.
If you are not sure what they need, ask someone close to them.
After one of my surgeries, I had friends send beautiful coloring books and cozy socks.
People held prayer services for our family and had mass said in my honor.
Your actions dont have to be extravagant to be appreciated.
Five years ago, she insisted on taking off work and coming to my treatment session.
Previously, I attended treatment sessions alone.
I took the train, subway and walked because I wanted to feel strong and independent.
In the beginning, this strategy worked.
But as time went on, I started to feel sorry for myself, sad and alone.
Looking back, those negative experiences could have disrupted my healing.
At the very least, they caused me stress.
Rosa found comfort in having company during her breast cancer treatment.
This made it feel less daunting.
This can be done in a variety of ways.
My village was always busy cooking for me and my family.
My mother-in-law made nourishing meals for my family weekly, as did close family and friends.
I felt like an alien.
I couldnt relate to anyone.
This gave me hope and inspiration.
Through the years, I have connected with young parents like me who understand what I am going through.
We support each other parenting kids while having cancer.
If you’re free to, just be there for them when they are ready.
Support the Caregiver
Cancer impacts the people closest to you, especially caregivers.
While they may not be the ones receiving the treatments, they are going through it with you.
They are often responsible for picking up the slack at home.
Stanfield says, Life doesnt stop just because you have cancer.
My wife has been exceptional in taking on a majority of the family responsibilities.
Knowing that you have that support at home is priceless.
Supporting the caregiver requires the same things you would for the person going through cancer treatment.
Above are some suggestions, but there is nowrongway to show love and support.
Take action for them and their caregivers; they will be grateful and you will make an impact.
Find something you want to do and go with it.
It could be as simple as sending a card, making a meal or spending time with them.
American Cancer Society.All about cancer.
