Welcome back to Twins4wellness, in this blog post I have created a list of the best ways to support someone with breast cancer. When someone is diagnosed with breast cancer it is a very scary time for them. Being able to emotionally support someone who has heard the worst news of their lives is essential to helping them survive through treatment. The following are ways to help someone cope with the devasting diagnosis of Breast Cancer.
The Top 8 Best Ways to Support Someone with Breast Cancer
Be there for them
Offer your emotional support and be available to listen whenever they need to talk. Let them know you’re there for them throughout their journey. I texted or called my sister every day and sent snap chats to supportive friends throughout treatment. It was wonderful to have their support.
Educate yourself
Learn about breast cancer, its treatments, and potential side effects. This will help you understand what your family member is going through and will enable you to provide informed support. My sister and I have been doing a lot of research on breast cancer and we started this blog to inform others about breast cancer.
Offer practical assistance
Help with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or running errands. This can alleviate some of their burdens and allow them to focus on their health. Treatment for breast cancer is hard on our bodies and breast cancer patients are not able to do all the things they used to do while in treatment. Their job is to rest and let their bodies heal, so help them if you can. My mom and dad bought me groceries and made me some of my favorite meals.
Attend Medical Appointments
Accompany your family member to doctors’ appointments, treatments, or support groups. If you and they are comfortable with you doing so. Having a family member there can provide comfort and help them navigate the healthcare system.
I brought my mom to most of my appointments because she is a huge comfort to me. In the beginning, it was so overwhelming and it was nice to have someone else there to help ask questions. I also asked my sister-in-law who is a nurse to accompany us because I value her knowledge and advice.
Provide a Listening Ear
Allow your family member to express their fears, frustrations, or concerns openly. Let them know it’s okay to share their emotions and validate their feelings. You don’t have to offer advice or solve their problems just listen to them.
Respect their Choices
Understand that treatment decisions are personal, and your family member’s choice should be respected. Offer support without trying to impose your own opinions or judgments.
Offer Distractions
Engage in activities your family members enjoy such as watching movies, going for walks, or pursuing hobbies. Distractions can provide moments of joy and take their mind off cancer-related concerns.
Connect with Support Networks
Encourage your family member to seek support from breast cancer support groups, counseling services, or online communities. Connecting with others who have faced similar experiences can be comforting and empowering. Here is a link to the Susan G Komen breast cancer support page: https://www.komen.org/support-resources/support/support-groups/
Breast Cancer Support
Remember everyone is different while coping with a breast cancer diagnosis so it is essential that you be sensitive to your family member’s individual needs and preferences.
