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Common Questions on Caring and Helping

Are there any tips on how to talk with someone who has cancer?
25 Practical Tips To Help Those Facing a Serious Illness Colorectal Cancer Network
Talking to Someone with Cancer - Cancer BACUP
Supporting a Loved One - Y-ME
What Should I Say to the Person Who Has Cancer? – American Cancer Society (ACS)

I’m the caregiver for my husband. I can't even think about "how” to help. I just have to do it. I know I shouldn’t complain but I'm worn out. How can I look after both of us?
Caregiver Stress - American Academy of Family Physicians
Caregiving - AARP - This is geared towards caregiving of elderly parents but has helpful tips.
Caregiving - Home Care Guide for Advanced Cancer - American College of Physicians
Problems with Communication, Mental Confusion and Seizures - Home Care Guide for Advanced Cancer - American College of Physicians
Caregiving - People Living With Cancer
How To Care for a Loved One With Cancer - ACS

My friend and co-worker has been diagnosed with colon cancer. All of his friends keep asking "what can we do to help"? Yet he and his family are so overwhelmed they have no idea what to say or ask us to do? Have you any suggestions about how I might put all these good intentions to work and help them?
Share the Care - Share the Care
Lotsa Helping Hands - Lotsa Helping Hands

One of my employees has cancer. I want to be supportive but I’m not sure what to expect or how to help.
When Someone You Work with Has Cancer – American Cancer Society
Managing Cancer Treatment-Related Fatigue in the Workplace Setting - CancerSymptoms.org
The ADA: Your Responsibilities as an Employer - The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Federal Laws Prohibiting Discrimination: Questions and Answers - The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Accommodation Ideas for Cancer - US Department of Labor

My friend is finishing cancer treatment. I want to be able to talk with her about her experience and what she's feeling now. Any tips?
Your Social Relationships After Cancer - Facing Forward: Life After Cancer Treatment - National Cancer Institute (NCI)

My friend is dying of cancer. How can I help?
Helping a Friend Who Is Dying - Hospice Net
When Someone You Love Has Advanced Cancer - National Cancer Institute - NCI

Do you have a list of websites, books, and other resources on how to talk and help with someone has cancer?
Information Finder on How To Talk & Help

Revised 2008

Harvard Medical School - Teaching Affiliate  
Treadwell Library | Blum Learning Center