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Information For Patients

For Families and Friends

Man and woman holding hands.People do survive cancer, but not without a fight and the support of others. When someone you care about has cancer, it's important to know just what to say or do and how best to provide support, because for people with cancer, everyday life may change, but everyday life doesn't stop.

Your role as a caregiver and friend is extremely important. Cancer treatment can be really tough. For people with cancer, loss of spirit and hope are the real perils of life. Your simple acts of kindness can uplift the spirit and offer renewed hope.

Whatever you do to help, large or small, long-term or short-term, will matter. It will make a difference.

The following information is based, in large part, on what patients have shared with us during the course of their treatment, and it addresses some of their most important needs and desires.

For Primary Caregivers: Remember to Take Care of Yourself

Attending to your own needs can help bring renewed strength and commitment to your role as a caregiver. Do not neglect yourself at this time - it's crucial to your loved one's care that you remain balanced and strong. Read our tips for taking care

Support Comes In All Shapes and Sizes

There are various things you can do to support your friend during this time—anything from assisting in treatment, keeping friends and family informed, to just keeping the rest of your friend's life organized and often just giving a hug and a smile. By just listening to your friend, you can find several ideas for helping him/her through this challenge. Also, remember that the challenge is also an emotional one. While supporting your friend or loved one in practical matters, be sure to support him/her in emotional matters as well.

If There Are Children At Home

Children may be the most vulnerable of all family members.

Cancer in a family environment can cause confusing and dramatic changes to routine and strong feelings of insecurity. Take into account that different age groups tend to respond in different manners. However, all children, regardless of age, need comfort and reassurance. You can help in many ways, from helping the child(ren) continue with their daily routine, to just being a friend.

How You Can Help Someone With Cancer

Most importantly, start by letting them know that you care. Remember that the challenge is not only physical, but also emotional. In addition:

  • Be patient and understanding. Also, help them to laugh. Laughter lightens the heart and hastens the recovery.

  • Help them to regard their ailment as a temporary detour in life. Assist them in realizing and setting long-term goals. It will contribute greatly to their recovery.
  • Be a comfort to them, providing knowledge, encouragement, understanding and love. Help them to be brave. Give them hope.

  • Belief is one of the most valiant and long-lived human characteristics. Helping them to believe in themselves, their doctors and their medicine, will give them strength.

  • Remind them that cancer is not the total of their life, but merely a part of it. Help to fill their life with other diversions, be they mundane, daring, altruistic, or simply for pleasure.

Support Groups

Various support groups are available in the Rochester and Monroe County area to support cancer patients, cancer survivors, caregivers, family members and friends. Find a support group that best suits your needs.