What a Cancer Patient Needs from Friends and Loved Ones
Listen and avoid comparison
Always be honest in conversation with a cancer patient, even if that means letting them know that you are uncomfortable and don’t know what to say. Being open about the cancer initially is better than trying to talk around it, or creating an “elephant in the room” situation. Listening to what they have to say is best; they will give you cues either directly or indirectly about what they would like to talk about.
Some people like to talk about their cancer, and it helps them process. Others would rather not, and would prefer to talk about things outside of their immediate situation. Either way, listen and be open with your conversation. The worst thing you could do is compare the cancer patient’s situation to someone else that you have known. Every cancer is different, and every person is different. Avoid making comparisons for the sake of conversation.
