Being diagnosed with cancer can be a life-changing experience.
On one hand, you may feel overwhelmed and hopeless.
People may react in a variety of ways after receiving this diagnosis.
Others experience anxiety, fear, anger, guilt, or sadness.
TheWorld Health Organizationreports that more than 18 million men and women were diagnosed with cancer in 2020.
The best thing you could do for someone in this situation is listen andshow your support.
Don’t just tell them that everything will be fine no one knows how things will turn out.
Your condition is treatable."
Cancer is cancer, no matter what pop in, and no one wants to deal with it.
Never say to someone who has cancer that it’s their fault.
Don’t tell them you know how they feel or that one of your friends had the same disease.
Cancer is a personal experience that affects people in different ways.
Others may ask inappropriate questions or make assumptions instead of showing their support.
If you’re not sure what to say, just let your friend know you’re there for them.
Listen without judgment and avoid cliches like, “stay strong, you’ll win this battle.”
Sometimes, a simple “I’m sorry” is enough.
Don’t just ask, “Is there anything I can do for you?”
Chances are, they don’t want you to pity them.
Instead, show your support through your actions.
For example, you could say something like, “I could take you to the hospital tomorrow.
It’s on my way home.”
Caring Bridge also suggests visiting your friend whenever possible and helping them resume their daily routines.
Encourage them togo out for a walk, watch movies together, or try new activities.
What matters most is to help them maintain a sense of control in their lives.
Also, refrain from talking about clinical trials and breakthrough treatments.
In such cases, it may be worth speaking with the doctor who is treating your friend.
