5 Things You Can Do For a Family Member With Cancer

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    5 Things You Can Do For a Family Member With Cancer

    Unfortunately, cancer shows no signs of slowing down.  Statistics show that most people will know at least one family member in their lifetime.  

    Whether you already have someone with cancer already, or perhaps you want to prepare for the worst, child health insurance is a great way you can support someone you love.

    Find The Best Treatment

    One of the most useful things that you can do for them is to make sure they’re properly cared for.  Rather than allowing just anyone to take care of them, make sure they’re in good hands.

    The last thing you want for them is to be a victim of malpractice.  Therefore, always make sure that you research the options available.  Always get a second opinion and only go for medical care which comes highly recommended.

    In addition to being treated by a traditional doctor, you should consider looking into alternative methods as well.  Many patients find that treatments such as massage, yoga, and meditation can help cope with the symptoms.

    Be Emotionally Supportive

    A lot of people who know someone with cancer aren’t sure what to say.  They’re afraid that they may say the wrong thing or bring up painful feelings.  However, the most important thing to do is be there for them. If they want to talk about it, listen.  Don’t focus too much about saying the right or wrong thing.

    As much as you may want to help, there’s not much you can do.  The best thing you can do is to offer emotional support. Have a good cry. Talk about feelings.  Encourage them to let it out and create a safe space for them to vent.

    Offer Practical Help

    In addition to offering emotional and spiritual help, you should also help out with everyday things like housework.  You may want to offer to help clean their house, cook for them, or take the kids off of their hands.

    Consider running their errands for them, or anything else that may be of help.

    Even though emotional help is hugely important, so is tangible help. Get creative and generous with different ways to lend a hand.

    Offer Gifts

    Gifts don’t have to cost a lot of money.  Sometimes just showing up with something you made them is a tremendous gesture.  Send them cards, or offer them something you that you thought would make them smile.

    Knowing that someone cares about them and has them in their thoughts can be incredibly therapeutic.  Cancer can be very isolating, so feeling loved can help them realize they’re not alone after all.

    Laughter Is The Best Medicine

    Don’t allow yourself to get too caught up in the tragedy of it all.  Crack jokes and use laughter as a way to keep the atmosphere light.

    The last thing they need is to feel like there’s a solemn atmosphere around them all the time.  Make them forget their problems and laugh a little!

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    Written by Jenson Phillips

    Hi, I'm Jenson. Father of two and living with OCD, read my musings on coping with both and maybe pick up some advice for yourself.