How to Support a Loved One Diagnosed with Cancer

Learning that your loved one has cancer is difficult news to hear. Suddenly, you have so many questions not just about cancer, but on what to say to comfort your loved one, how to act around him/her, and what you can do to make the situation more bearable. Your loved one may be feeling anxious and overwhelmed, but there are ways to provide help and support to somehow ease the burden of the illness.

As a partner in helping people through difficulties in life, AXA Philippines, one of the country’s leading insurance providers, offers ways to help families prepare if a loved one is diagnosed with cancer:

Get facts about the cancer diagnosis. Sometimes fear and worry come from uncertainty. During this time, try to obtain as much information about the cancer diagnosis, so you can help your loved one through the decision-making process. Some basic questions you might want to consider are: What is the type and stage of the cancer? What are the treatment options? How will the treatment help him/her? What are the effects of the treatment?

For eligible policyholders, AXA Philippines also offers Preferred Consultation and Care, a value-added service to help patients make informed decisions in case of diagnosis of cancer or heart disease with the expert advice of top U.S. specialists. This service also comes with a Personal Care manager who can help you navigate your treatment journey so you can focus on your recovery.

Offer practical help. Getting a cancer diagnosis may have drastic physical changes on the person. He/she may lose weight and appetite, experience hair loss, and feel weak or fatigued. Try to anticipate these changes, and do what you can to help, such as running errands, cooking meals, and driving to the hospital, among other things. And if you offer to help, just make sure you’re also ready to follow through for your relative.

Be the emotional support. Showing support for people with cancer can make a big difference in their quality of life. Let them know that you’re there for them when they need to talk to about their fears and worries regarding their condition. Share a joke or laugh with them, if it seems appropriate, and try to keep your relationship as normal as possible or the way it was before the diagnosis. At the same time, respect them and their boundaries if they ask for privacy and independence.

Being diagnosed with cancer can have a drastic effect on the patient and his/her loved ones. As such, it’s important to stay informed and find support, be it physical, emotional, or financial help. With Preferred Consultation and Care, AXA Philippines can be your partner in this. For more information, talk to an AXA agent via the landline +632 8 5815-292.