There is nothing worse than discovering a loved one has cancer. It is one of the most deadly diseases in the world, and there is currently no cure. That said, there are a lot of things you can do to improve their quality of life. The article you’re reading right now will give you some great advice. Your loved one is going through a very hard time, and they need to know you are there to help. Even if the cancer patient is not a member of your family, you should still over the same level of support. Sometimes people are closer to their friends than their flesh and blood relatives.
- Make time for them
Cancer patients undergo a lot of stress. That is especially the case if they have developed the condition early in life. Nobody wants to think their time on Earth could be about to come to an end. With that in mind, you should keep at least a couple of hours free each week for a good chat. Visit their home or the hospital and keep them updated on the latest news. In most instances, they won’t want to discuss the illness in detail, and that is fine. However, you should lend them an ear if they want to air their frustrations.
- Ensure they are being treated fairly
Some hospitals and doctors are better than others. You want the best possible care for your loved one, and so you need to do some research. Presuming there are better professionals in the local area, you should get in touch on the patient’s behalf. In some instances, the individual might be entitled to compensation. For instance, clinical negligence solicitors can often make a claim if the patient received a late diagnosis. Sometimes doctors overlook something important and make the wrong decision.
- Help with medications
When people have cancer, they have to take a lot of different medicines. Remembering to take them at the right times can be difficult. After all, the patient is very ill. So, you could help by keeping their medication schedule to hand. Give them a call to ensure they’ve taken the tablets if you are unable to visit their home. Reminders from friends and loved ones could help them to keep on top of things. That is especially important if the cancer patient lives alone. They should get help from community nurses, but adding some extra support is not going to hurt.
You might also consider arranging an amazing holiday for your loved one. Cancer patients can often feel like their world has come to an end. So, giving them a life-changing experience could lift their mood. Perhaps they have always wanted to swim with dolphins? Maybe a trip to Lapland at Christmas could put a smile on their face? Just use your head, and try to sort something they will never forget. Also, you can contact all their other friends and relatives to help raise the money. Knowing you’ve all clubbed together will make the individual feel special.