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In spite of our advances in health care, a cancer diagnosis is still a devastating situation to face. While it’s certainly hard for the patient, it can be almost as troubling for their loved ones. Knowing how to treat a cancer patient and what to say can be distressing. The guide below can help you provide comfort to your loved one at a time when they need it the most.

Learn About Their Type of Cancer

You’ll find it difficult to be supportive of your loved one if you’re not familiar with their type of cancer. There are many different types of cancer, and treatment varies based on the type and location of it. While you may not understand all of the health care terms, gaining a general understanding of your loved one’s condition will help.

Respect Their Treatment Decisions

health careIt can be easy to offer your opinion about treatment decisions, but remember that this is between the cancer patient and their health care provider. If you are asked for your opinion, you should answer honestly and try to provide valuable insight. Otherwise, you can provide more support by listening to the cancer patient with a compassionate ear.

Help the Caregiver 

Offering comfort and company is a greater help than you may realize. However, if you want to do something more constructive, the caregiver can always use a helping hand. This person is usually a spouse, child, or another relative who is trying to juggle their own responsibilities alongside the needs of the cancer patient. Offering to drive the patient to the hospital, or volunteering to perform other errands, will be considered a valuable help.

Maintain a Normal Relationship

Once the initial shock of the cancer diagnosis diminishes, people tend to visit the patient less often. This is especially true after they return home from the clinic or hospital. The best thing you can do is to stay in touch with the cancer patient and make regular visitations whenever possible. This will help the cancer patient keep their spirits up and maintain a positive outlook.

 

Covenant Hospital Levelland - St. Joseph Health in Texas employs only the most dedicated health care professionals. Combined with state of the art technology and the latest treatment options available, the staff at Covenant Hospital Levelland - St. Joseph Health can provide you and your loved ones with the quality care you need. To learn more about their services, browse their website. If you have a specific inquiry, you can contact the hospital at (806) 894-4963.

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