Coping

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I Can Help You Cope: A Guide for Helping Someone You Love Cope With Cancer

  1. Be honest. Telling me the truth will relieve tension for both of us.
  2. Include me in making decisions. Don't deprive me of the right to plan my own life.
  3. Listen to me, even if I repeat myself.
  4. Remember that a physical illness can affect my mind, emotions and spirit, too.
  5. Volunteer your help. Prepare food for my family, offer transportation, make phone calls, cut the grass, look after my children and organize others to help.
  6. Send cards and letters. Make short, frequent visits.
  7. Remember that I will need to be alone sometimes. Respect my need for privacy.
  8. Bring me your emotional support. Talk about the future with me. Hope is what keeps me going.
  9. Words aren't always necessary. Your touch can speak volumes.
  10. Don't be afraid to talk about difficult subjects. Ask me how I'm feeling.
  11. Learn about my illness. Become aware of support groups that can help during stressful phases.
  12. Encourage me to stay active, but remember my limitations.
  13. Keep me informed about the family, community and world.
  14. Give me your empathy, not your pity. Remember that we all have the same "human" needs. Showing that you care gives me courage.
  15. Don't be afraid to talk about my illness, but don't always talk about it.
  16. Accept my negative feelings and fears. It is important for me to talk about them.
  17. Cry with me, and laugh with me. I need to share this with my friends and loved ones.
  18. Pray for and with me.

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Louis Geeraerts M.D.
Louis Geeraerts M.D.
Oncology – Medical
Hematology

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