How to be a Pillar for a Friend with Cancer?

If you find out that one of your friends or colleagues has cancer, you may wonder about the best way to support them. Even though you intend to help them, you may feel at a loss for what to do or say. It is crucial to remember that every friendship is different in its own way and there are no specific rules. Think about your unique dynamic and let that guide you as you try to support them. Don’t complicate it, and remember that the little things mean the world most of the time. Being present throughout their treatment is necessary and to make sure that their treatment is done by one of the best oncology surgeons in India.

What to Consider Before Talking to a Friend with Cancer?

Here are some things to keep in mind before talking to a friend who has cancer-

• Processing your feelings- When you get to know that your friend has cancer, you go through an emotional roller coaster. It can be difficult news to hear. Take your time to cope with your feelings about the diagnosis before you meet them so that you can keep the focus on your friend. They should feel that their emotions are validated.
• Research about the diagnosis- Your friend may not want to talk about the diagnosis for several reasons. It can be a tiring process to repeat the same details to different people. Consider talking to the best oncology surgeons in India about the diagnosis before seeing your friend. Talk to your friend’s family members and offer them your emotional as well as physical support. 
• Friend’s perspective- Think about what it feels like to be sick. Think about the situation that your friend is in from their perspective. Cancer can lead to changes in appearance which can be challenging to accept. Fatigue, weight loss or gain, and hair loss are some common side effects of cancer. Make sure not to comment on any physical changes when you see them.
• Ask before you pay a visit- Whether you’re visiting them at home or in the hospital, always ask. Let them decide whether it is a good time to meet and remember to be flexible and understand that someone who is sick may call and cancel at the last minute. If they don’t want to meet anyone at that time, don’t take it personally. If you do visit, don’t overstay your welcome. Don’t make your friend feel obligated to keep you entertained. 

 

How to Aid a Friend with Cancer 

There are multiple ways you can help a friend who is suffering from cancer-

• Set up a team- Many people with cancer find it difficult to keep friends and family updated on their latest recovery status. Set up a phone team for them so that only one person can reach out and provide information to the rest of the group. This person can also let everyone know if the patient wants to talk to anyone or would prefer to be alone. You can even book a consultation with the best oncologist surgeons in India for them. 

• Daily tasks- It may be tough for your friend to ask for help, but some of the most beneficial things you can do are to assist with daily tasks like grocery shopping; if they have a child, you can babysit or pick them up from school, laundry, etc. You can make a list of tasks with which you can help them and are willing to do and ask your friend where they need help. If you’re going out, give your friend a call and ask them if they need anything else you can pick up for them.
• Be there for them- Listening is the most meaningful thing you can do for them. If you are unsure when beginning a conversation, it’s fine to tell them that. It’s okay to feel awkward, but make sure to acknowledge the situation rather than pretend it’s not happening.
•  Notice the cues- People get frustrated because cancer is a big part of their life now. Look for cues on what to discuss and what to not. Talking about something other than cancer and treatment might be a nice reprieve but if you’re not sure, let them know you’re there if they want to talk about it. 
• Everyone’s illness is different- There are several types of cancer about which you can gain more information from the best oncology surgeons in India and remember the recovery process for everyone is different. It might be uncouth to compare their disease with someone you might know who is suffering from the same illness.

It is a tough time for them, just be there and empathize with their situation. Use your skill of tentativeness to make them feel better. Validate their feelings and be specific in your offers to help.

Conclusion 

It is essential to keep the steady trickle of support from the initial diagnosis till throughout the treatment process without being overwhelming. Be attuned to your friend’s needs and comfort level to ensure maximum care.

Being there throughout your friend’s treatment is a crucial task, and it can get exhausting for you as well. However, treatment in a good hospital with caring doctors might make it a little easy for both you and your friend. With a team of the best oncology surgeons in India, the patient can get the proper treatment and the support they need. check out another blog.