Medical City Healthcare - July 23, 2020

Take Care

When a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, we want to be a source of support but don’t know how to help or even what to say.  Katie Ozuna, survivorship navigator and psychosocial coordinator at the Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute, has some advice to get the conversation going.

  • Start by asking questions, and let your loved one lead the conversation. The direct approach may be the best with a heartfelt question like, “I would love to support you right now. What is the best way I can do that?”
  • Stay away from comments like “don’t cry,” and “these things happen for a reason.” While perhaps well intentioned, phrases like that can minimize the experience your loved one is going through.
    • Remember that the purpose of your conversation is to provide a safe and comforting space for your loved one. Simply being present may be enough.
  • Share local resources for support. Look to the experts in your community for helpful resources.
    • Call the askSARAH hotline at (972) 202-8877, or visit com to get your cancer-related questions answered.

To supplement the cancer care at our hospitals, Medical City Healthcare can connect you with support groups in North Texas.

At Medical City Healthcare, we’re dedicated to the care and improvement of human life. So we hope you’ll Take Care!

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tags: cancer support , oncology , survivorship , take care