Tips for Helping a Loved One with Lung Cancer

This article originally appeared on www.lungcanceralliance.org. 

When a loved one finds out they have lung cancer, it can be hard to know how best to help them, what to say or even how they are feeling. Here are some tips to keep in mind when helping a love one through their lung cancer journey.

1. Take care of yourself. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, but it is essential that you find your best support during this journey. You need to be strong and in the best health possible in order to be there for your loved one.
2. Don’t take it personally. Understand that your loved one is coping with their disease in their own unique way and try not to take things he or she says or does personally.
3. Respect independence. Your loved one may want to do more for him or herself to prevent burdening you. Go with it and let them as long as it doesn’t negatively impact his or her health.
4. Don’t change your relationship. When your loved one has cancer, it doesn’t mean that they want to be treated differently or want your relationship to change. Try your best to treat them the way you did before diagnosis.
5. Be open and direct. At the time of your loved one’s diagnosis, find out exactly what your loved wants throughout every step regarding treatment and support. This way, you will be on the same page and be able to make decisions as a team.

For more tips on your role as a caregiver, click here.

Dr. Peter Mikhail treats patients suffering from lung cancer in the Tampa, Clearwater, and New Port Richey areas of Florida. Call him to book an appointment for an evaluation of condition at 727-312-4844. You may be a good candidate for the da Vinci Surgical System.