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2nd October 2025
How to Support Someone During Cancer Treatment
A cancer diagnosis can be life-changing, for both the patient and their loved ones. If someone close to you is currently undergoing cancer treatment, you may wonder how to best support them. Every person’s experience with cancer is unique, and their emotions and needs can change daily. Being there for them in the right way, both emotionally and practically, can make a real difference.
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Emotional support
A person with cancer may experience a wide range of emotions, including anger, sadness, fear, and uncertainty. These emotions can shift throughout their journey, sometimes from one moment to the next. One day they might feel hopeful, and the next, they might feel overwhelmed. Remain mindful of their mood without assuming you know how they feel.
Remember that cancer does not define who they are. They might not always want to talk about their illness, and sometimes, having a normal conversation or sharing a joke can be a welcome distraction.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
- Be present and listen. Sometimes, just knowing you are there can be comforting.
- Let them lead the conversation. Give them space to talk without interrupting.
- Acknowledge their feelings without judgment. A simple “That sounds really tough” can be more meaningful than trying to fix things.
- Respect their need for space if they do not feel like talking.
Don’t:
- Say, “I know how you feel.” Every person’s experience with cancer is different.
- Pressure them to “stay strong” or “be positive.” This can feel like an added burden.
- Take it personally if they are upset, angry, or withdrawn.
- Compare their experience to someone else’s. No two cancer journeys are the same.
- Offer unsolicited advice. Only give advice if they ask for it.
Practical support
Cancer treatment can be exhausting, making the smallest daily tasks impossible to carry out. Check in with your loved one and ask if there is anything specific they need help with.
Some ways to offer support include:
- Providing transportation to and from appointments.
- Keeping them company during treatment sessions.
- Helping with grocery shopping, meal preparation, or household chores.
- Offering to run errands or pick up prescriptions.
However, it is important to respect their independence. Some people may not want or feel comfortable accepting help. Don’t take it personally if they decline your offer—just remind them that you’re there if they change their mind.
Support services
The Mid-Western Cancer Information and Support Centre is located beside Mater Private Network’s Mid-Western Radiation Oncology Centre in Limerick and offers a range of services to patients attending our department, including:
- Information booklets to help patients and families navigate the journey.
- Counselling services for emotional support.
- Complementary therapies to help with relaxation and well-being.
- Support groups for patients and caregivers.
- A drop-in facility where patients and families can have a quiet moment, a chat, or a cup of tea.
The above content was reviewed by Niamh Bresnan, Radiotherapy Clinical Nurse Manager 2 at Mater Private Network’s Mid-Western Radiation Oncology Centre in Limerick.
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