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Supporting a friend who has cancer
You may feel shocked and lost for words when you find out that someone close to you has cancer. You want to help, but don’t know what to do. Helping those who care for them is important too. Much of the practical ideas help the whole family.
Here are some suggestions of ways to help – you might like to ask Would it be helpful if I …… ?
Help with feelings
 Listen to their fears and worries. Touch them – a hug or a touch on the arm can sometimes be better than words. Be around. They’ll feel less isolated and know you care. Keep in touch – by phone, text messages, flowers, notes or cards. Talk about your feelings and try and understand theirs. Don’t change the subject if it gets uncomfortable. Saying nothing is OK. Laugh together.Practical help
Take them to appointments, offer to take notes if that would be helpful. Sit with them in waiting rooms and during treatments. Take the children to school, or have them over to play. Make meals – if they can be frozen they can be used anytime. Run errands – shopping, banking or whatever would be useful. Bring special treats – like favourite fruits, take away coffee, or hand cream. Look after pets. Look after the garden. Do the ironing. Bring puzzles, magazines, books or other things to help pass the time.Remember to
Let them do things for themselves when they can and want to. Keep them involved with things – they will still want to know what’s happening with the children, at work, and in your life. Include them in regular outings, birthdays, special occasions. Talk about other things. They probably still want to talk about the football, their favourite TV show or your holiday.If you need to talk to someone about your friend's cancer, call Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20.
Find out more
Read our I want to help booklet
Something new
imthinkingofyou - this is an interactive communication tool that links family, friends and communities in times of need
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