Offering Emotional Support to Your Loved One With Breast Cancer

The physical toll that breast cancer takes is immediately apparent. The emotional toll may be less visible, but in many cases, it’s just as devastating. If you have a loved one who is battling this awful disease, you want to do everything you can to help them. What can you do, though, if you aren’t a scientist or a doctor? Providing emotional support is one of the most valuable ways to support a cancer patient. Here are some other ways you can offer support throughout your loved one’s treatment, courtesy of Breast Cancer Angels.

 

Get Involved in Charitable Causes

 

In 2020, nearly 240,000 new cases of breast cancer were reported in the US. This startling number illustrates just how deadly and widespread the disease is. One of the most popular ways to show support for cancer patients is to get involved in cancer charities.

 

There are many cancer charities to choose from, and you could even start your own. If you start a nonprofit organization, you can apply for grants and other public funding to further fuel your mission. A nonprofit should have bylaws that include information such as your organization’s structure and government, the frequency of its meetings, criteria for conflict of interest, and protocol for voting.

 

In addition to clearly outlined bylaws, an effective nonprofit organization should have a clear mission statement, a diverse leadership team, and the ability to create positive change through its operations. Most importantly, though, your charity should retain focus on the needs of cancer patients. If your loved one is interested in getting involved, for example, offering them an advisory role can keep your organization on track.

 

Organizing an awareness walk for cancer research is a great way to make a difference in the fight against this disease. When planning such an event, one important consideration is determining the route of the walk. This is where a Walk Score map can be particularly helpful. With this tool, you can identify the most pedestrian-friendly streets and pathways in the area, ensuring that participants have a safe and enjoyable experience. By utilizing a Walk Score map in the planning process, you can create a well-organized and memorable event that raises awareness and funds for cancer research.

 

Jumpstart a New Career Path

 

If starting a new career is more appealing than starting a charity, there are several professional opportunities that can help you help cancer patients. You could find a path into the medical field by studying nursing, for example, or pursuing another medical position. Medical professionals who work with cancer patients play a huge role in their treatment and recovery.

 

Another potential career path you could pursue to help cancer patients is that of a therapist. Therapists can offer vital services to patients battling cancer by helping them develop coping mechanisms. Becoming a therapist often takes years, though, so your loved one may benefit from seeing an already-established counselor now. There are many online therapists to consider, and online therapy means that your loved one doesn’t have to travel to appointments. It’s also often less expensive.

 

Other Ways to Help

 

When a loved one is undergoing breast cancer treatment, it can be a challenging time for them. One practical way to support your loved one is by taking care of household tasks, such as cleaning. Cancer treatment can leave patients feeling exhausted, so keeping the home clean and tidy can help create a more comfortable and relaxing environment. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some cleaning products contain carcinogens, which are chemicals that may contribute to the development of cancer. To avoid exposure to these harmful substances, be sure to use cleaners that are safe and non-toxic. There are many carcinogen-free cleaning products available on the market, or you can even make your own using natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda. By taking steps to keep the house clean and healthy, you can provide a supportive and caring environment for your loved one during their cancer treatment journey.

 

You could also volunteer or share expertise in an alternative field of treatment. Some research suggests that acupuncture, yoga, massage therapy, and meditation can all have a positive effect on a cancer prognosis. Offering activities like these to your loved one can help lift their spirits and give them something to look forward to.

 

Fight Cancer and Help Your Loved One

 

Watching a loved one battle breast cancer is a demoralizing and difficult experience. When you’re in this position, you want to support them in any way possible. Luckily, there are many options that allow you to do so, including starting a nonprofit, pursuing a career in the medical field, encouraging your loved one to seek out therapy, and keeping their home clean. Helping your loved one can provide you both with strength and healing.

 

Breast Cancer Angels is here to support those impacted by breast cancer. Questions? We’d love to hear from you!