Being a Friend to Someone with Cancer

Your friends hold a special place in your life. They probably often spend as much, if not more, time with you than your family does. While friends can be incredibly supportive and uplifting, the impact of cancer can test even the most solid friendships. You might find that some friendships fade while new ones emerge.

With cancer, you’ll experience numerous changes, such as frequent hospital visits, a shift in your usual activities, and possible changes in your appearance or behavior. These adjustments can be challenging for your friends, and they may not always be as present as you would hope.

Practical Support

In addition to providing emotional support, offer practical assistance. Ask your friend if there’s anything specific they need help with. Some individuals may not want assistance or may find it difficult to accept it. They might wish to maintain their independence. Try not to take this to heart. Respect their choice, but clarify that you’re available if they change their mind. You could suggest helping out again later or organize a schedule with friends to take turns offering assistance. Ensure you can follow through on any commitments you make to help.

Give a Considerate Gift

Send them their preferred snacks or provide activity books for use during treatments. If the patient has children, offering books on discussing cancer with kids could be beneficial. Consider getting a small flip notebook to serve as a treatment countdown, beginning from day one to the conclusion.

Each day, jot down quotes, affirmations, or uplifting words. This approach can effectively help maintain a positive outlook and bring some cheer to their day. If they beat the cancer, the Mesothelioma survivors will appreciate the effort you put into their care.

Be There

It’s clear, yet incredibly vital, that teens battling cancer often experience feelings of isolation, particularly when they’re hospitalized or away from school for extended periods. Make it a priority to visit them as frequently as possible. Resist the temptation to avoid visits due to discomfort or wishing the situation was different.

Your presence alone can provide immense support even if uncertain what to say. If physical visits are challenging due to distance or scheduling conflicts, keep in touch through notes, cards, emails, instant messages, phone calls, or texts. You can also help by offering rides to other friends to the hospital or organizing an email list or online social network group to help your friend stay connected with their peers.

Help Them Feel at Ease

Encourage them to open up by creating a supportive environment. Show genuine interest and give them your full attention, allowing them to express everything on their mind. Familiarize yourself with their diagnosis beforehand so they don’t have to revisit distressing details.

Choose a private and comfortable setting for in-person meetings. Actively listening by maintaining eye contact, using positive body language, and avoiding interruptions to foster a more welcoming space for their story.

Be Patient

It is natural for individuals with cancer to feel sad, anxious, and scared. Additionally, certain treatments may cause side effects such as tiredness or mood swings. If you visit and your friend appears aloof, upset, or unenthusiastic, try not to take it to heart. Remember, they are dealing with a difficult situation. Visit them again the next day, and things might improve.

Endnote

Supporting someone facing trauma, whether due to their own cancer or that of a loved one, can be profoundly meaningful. Remember to remain compassionate and give them the space to express themselves freely.