The feeling of helplessness can be overwhelming when you have a friend affected by cancer. It may be difficult to know exactly how to help, and your friend may not be able to communicate his or her needs. Consider this list compiled from local cancer survivors and Cancer.net:

Try saying:

• I’m sorry you’re going through this.

• I care about you.

• What are you thinking about doing and how can I help?

• I am here to help you. Can I take you to treatment and stay with you? Offer

something else specific you can do.

• I don’t know what to say, but I’m thinking of you.

• I will listen anytime you need to talk.

What you can do:

• Babysit or drive your friend’s kids to school and activities

• Bring dinner for your friend’s family

• Do household chores

• Grocery shop, pick up prescriptions or run other errands

• Drive your friend to appointments

• Stay during treatment if desired and possible

• Go for a walk together or walk your friend’s dog

• Bring over a movie to watch together

• Bring over a treat (favorite candy or coffee drink or anything else your friend

can tolerate)

• Treat your friend the same. Keep telling your friend about your life.

• Don’t withdraw even when this is hard for you. Your friend needs you to be

responsive.

• Don’t ever compare your friend’s situation with someone else who has cancer.

• Research information about a service or program if your friend asks

• Send funny cards, texts or notes to your friend