It can be hard to know what to say when someone close to you is diagnosed with cancer. It may seem best to pretend that everything is fine and carry on as normal. You may not want to add to the person’s worry by seeming afraid or by saying the wrong thing.
Sadly, denying strong feelings like this can make it even harder to talk openly together and can lead to the patient feeling very lonely. Partners, relatives and friends can help by listening carefully to what the person with cancer wants to say about his or her illness. Don’t say too much - let them do most of the talking. Above all let them know that you are there when they want to talk or need help.
