Guidance

As a caregiver for someone with breast cancer, I wish that when I announced it people said simply that they are sorry and asked me what they can do to help.

Mainly, I wish that people would ask me how things are going and how I am doing, instead of expecting me to bring it up. I know that it is an uncomfortable subject so I do not want to bother people with it. Checking in with people is important. They could be depressed, anxious and may not be able to reach out for help because they feel all alone.

The best approach was when someone said "I just wanted to ask how everything is going with your (sick person), if you don't want to talk about it that is okay. I just wanted to ask." This was the best approach because I do want to talk about it. No matter what it is always on my mind.

Please support others by addressing the topic, taking them out for coffee, cooking them dinner, go food shopping with them, etc. any little thing that may be too much for them to handle on their own.