Call it long-distance caregiving or simply being a caring daughter but texting and FaceTime has made it much easier to be present and supportive throughout my moms cancer journey.

What to say to someone who has been diagnosed with cancer. Offer specific practical support such as cooking meals or transport to an appointment. Dont make light of judge or try to change the way the person feels or acts. Try to stay away from other peoples cancer stories Brian recommends be respectful that everyones experience is personal Similarly avoid offering advice or opinions about your readers treatment choices prognosis or situation.

The best medicine is often listening to someone express their thoughts feelings and emotions. The Only Two Things You Need to Say to Someone With Cancer. When the average American already sends and receives an estimated 85 text messages a day why not use texting as a support mechanism.

Dont burden her with your fears or. If appropriate refer them to Cancer Councils 13 11 20 information and support services. Think positive thoughts may sound like good advice but it can be dismissive of your friends feelings.

Although all of the above are true saying Dont worry to a woman just diagnosed with breast cancer is like telling someone whose home has just been flattened in a tornado Its OK insurance. Allow your friend to be negative silent or withdrawn if that is how theyre feeling. Learning that a friend has cancer can be difficult news to hear.

Over time the person usually finds ways to manage these feelings. You can support the person with cancer by listening and talking with them. A young woman who was diagnosed with cancer was dismayed by the lack of greeting cards that expressed how she truly felt - but now shes on.

Forget advice forget the stories of others with cancer and leave silence behind you when you learn about a friends cancer diagnosis. Talking about a breast cancer diagnosis isnt fun. Speak through body language by placing your hand over your friends hand or give your friend a hug.