A diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer can be a stressful time of physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
These challenges also exist for family and friends of the person receiving the diagnosis.
However, there are many ways to support your loved one and help them navigate this difficult time.
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From offering emotional support to helping with daily tasks, your presence and caring can make a big difference.
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Just being there, even if its sitting together in silence, can make themfeel less alone.
These groups provide a safe space to share experiences and learn from others.
If groups meet in person, providing a ride is another way to support them.
Practical Assistance With Daily Tasks
Everyday chores can be overwhelming for someone with metastatic breast cancer.
They may havefatiguefrom the disease or its treatment side effects.
Offer to help with tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and grocery shopping.
Dropping off a homemade meal or running errands can make a big difference and help ease their burden.
Managing Medical Care
Navigating healthcare provider appointments, treatments, and medications can be stressful.
Offer to help keep track of their schedule, take notes during appointments, or organize medical paperwork.
You may also help organize their medications to ensure they are taking the correct medication at the proper time.
Support your loved one by researchingtreatment optionswith them and discussing potential side effect management with their healthcare team.
Finding Financial Aid
Cancer treatments and medications can be expensive.
Assist them with finding financial aid programs, grants, or fundraising options.
Assisting them with the paperwork for financial assistance can relieve some of their stress.
Helping to review insurance policies can be important as well.
Knowing more about their condition can help you provide informed support.
Spiritual Support
For some people, spiritual support provides comfort and strength.
If they are religious, offer to attend a service with them or connect them with their spiritual leader.
Other Tips for Caregivers
Caring for someone with metastatic breast cancer can be emotionally and physically exhausting.
To take care of them, you also need to take care of yourself.
Providing support can make a big difference.
Caregivers should also prioritize their well-being by setting boundaries, seeking support, and practicing self-care to prevent burnout.
Small acts can go a long way in showing your support during this challenging time.
2022;37(5):1322-1331. doi:10.1007/s13187-020-01954-4
American Cancer Society.Being a friend to someone with cancer.
National Cancer Institute.Financial toxicity and cancer treatment.
American Cancer Society.Caregiver resource guide.
