10 things you can do to support someone with cancer

Phone or reach out with a message or note to let them know you are here and that you are thinking about them. You may be worried about whether you are intruding or what the right thing to say might be, but it is better to say ‘I don’t know what to say, but I do care and I want to be there for you’ than to avoid someone or say nothing at all.

Let them express their feelings or allow them to be silent if they feel like saying nothing. Don’t compare their cancer to others or tell people what they should do to try to cure it.

Give them the space to talk about their cancer but don’t forget to talk about the other common interests that you share too. Don’t let their cancer define them.

Having someone with you during treatment can be a welcome distraction. Bring a book or puzzle and keep them company. You might like to bring a small gift to lift their spirits or something practical such as warm socks to give them comfort.

Ask whether they would appreciate your help by driving them to and from appointments or to collect prescriptions.

Good nutrition is important during cancer treatment and some people might experience changes in their taste and smell that can affect their appetite. Send a care package or make a supply of homemade meals to keep in the freezer. You could start a cooking roster with friends and family or do the grocery shopping.

It’s common for people with cancer to experience fatigue, so helping with household chores and other errands can be a big relief for them and their families.

Managing cancer treatment alongside family commitments can be very difficult. You may like to offer to help with childcare or by picking their children up from school and other activities.

Consider helping to look after the other cherished members of their family – their pets! You can help by feeding or walking their pets, cleaning up the kitty litter or by washing the dog.

Even after their active cancer treatment finishes, keep in touch by calling for a chat and let them know you’re there or reach out with a message and ask if they are okay.