For Caregivers

Supporting Someone With Cancer

You don't need to have all the answers. Being present matters more than being perfect.

Caregiving is one of the hardest things you'll ever do — and one of the most meaningful. This page is for you: the spouse, parent, child, sibling, or friend walking alongside someone through cancer.

Your Role as a Caregiver

Practical Support

• Accompanying to doctor visits and chemo sessions
• Managing medications and schedules
• Helping with nutrition and meal planning
• Coordinating with the medical team
• Managing paperwork and insurance

Emotional Support

• Listening without trying to "fix" everything
• Being patient with mood changes
• Maintaining normalcy where possible
• Respecting their need for space
• Celebrating small victories together

What Patients Wish Caregivers Knew

"Don't tell me to stay positive all the time."

It's okay to acknowledge that cancer is hard. Forced positivity can feel dismissive.

"Ask me how I'm feeling today — not how I'm doing in general."

Specific questions are easier to answer than broad ones during treatment.

"I still want to feel like myself."

Talk about normal life too — work, movies, gossip. Not everything has to be about cancer.

During Chemotherapy: How You Can Help

✓ Keep the home clean (patients are immunocompromised)
✓ Prepare light, easy-to-digest meals
✓ Track side effects and report to the doctor
✓ Ensure medications are taken on time

✓ Watch for signs of infection (fever, chills)
✓ Help with hydration — keep water/fluids handy
✓ Give them rest time without guilt
✓ Note down questions for the next doctor visit

Don't Forget Yourself

Caregiver burnout is real. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Here's what helps:

Accept help — when people offer, say yes. Delegate tasks.
Take breaks — even 30 minutes of walking or quiet time helps.
Talk to someone — a friend, counselor, or support group.
Stay healthy — eat well, sleep enough, move your body.
Set boundaries — you don't have to be available 24/7 to be a good caregiver.

⚠️ When to Call the Doctor Immediately

• Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) during chemotherapy
• Severe vomiting or inability to keep fluids down for 24+ hours
• Sudden breathlessness or chest pain
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medications
• Confusion or sudden changes in consciousness

For emergencies, call 112 or go to the nearest Emergency Department.

Need Guidance?

If you're a caregiver with questions about your loved one's treatment or care plan, don't hesitate to reach out.

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