Helping a Friend with Cancer

Posted Friday, October 16, 2009

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When a friend faces a serious illness, we usually want to offer support but are at a loss for words. Often, we respond with "let me know how I can help." Turns out that suggestion isn't always helpful. On the Sound of Ideas®, Regina Brett and guests talk about how loved ones, family, friends or colleagues can comfort someone battling cancer. We'll hear from a cancer therapist, a baffled family member and recovering cancer patients about what really helped, things said that seemed downright idiotic, and hear some funny moments, all the result of well-meaning people. Tips for supporting people with cancer -- what helps and what doesn't, Friday at 9 on 90.3.

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Guests

Susan Marinac, Clinical Therapist, The Gathering Place
Marc Silver, author, Breast Cancer Husband: How to Help Your Wife (and Yourself) during Diagnosis, Treatment and Beyond

Additional Information

Husbands: How to help a wife through cancer treatment, by Marc Silver, The Los Angeles Times

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Rage 9:52 AM 10/16/09

A couple from my hometown, both in their 60’s, have both been diagnosed with breast cancer at the same time...I guess this gives a whole new meaning to “breast cancer husband.” http://www.middletownjournal.com/news/middletown-news/tv-show-books-couple-who-both-are-battling-breast-cancer-350359.html

Maryann 10:27 AM 10/16/09

I had a colleague about 10 years ago that lost her battle with ovarian cancer. We as friends would take turns bringing meals for her and her girls. But what I wanted to mention was her selflessness. I remember that one of the last times I visited her she said to me “Take care of yourself, Maryann”. These words have echoed within me ever since.

Katy Scherer 10:37 AM 10/16/09

My husband died of pancreatic cancer in May. Our dear friend, Christine, couldn’t find appropriate cards to send to us during his difficult illness. She is an artist and so she designed three Crisis Cards. The goal was to provide beautiful cards with supportive sentiments and send all the proceeds to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Our web site is CrisisCards.net. We hope that this information may be helpful to those who wish to send a card to someone they care about who is struggling with cancer or another crisis in their life. Katy Scherer