But refrain from asking for details of a persons suffering unless you are close to the person or engaged in a longer conversation or visit.

What to say to someone who's been diagnosed with terminal cancer. If they start to cry as they talk you could say something like I can see how upsetting that is for you. Do you care about them. Try to avoid humour or jokes if they are talking about feeling sad or worried.

Sometimes it can help but it may make things difficult. It had been less than a month. Before visiting giving advice and asking questions ask if it is welcome.

Get involved with CRUK. Helpful tips when supporting a friend. Here are a few more conversation starters.

If its a coworker or acquaintance youre reaching out to its okay to. Give your friend a hug or sit beside her and hold her hand. 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.

Often the person will want to talk about their illness. What to say and not say when someone tells you they have cancer Supporting someone with cancer begins with active listening says Cancer Councils head of cancer information and support services Meg Chiswell. Smile and give her a thumbs up.

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. It is also fine to express hope that a person is not suffering too much hope that they are comfortable getting the care they need and are well-surrounded by loved ones. Are you sorry that they are going through this.