When a friend is diagnosed with cancer we are often at a loss as how to help them. I can tell you from my own experience that simply letting them know that you care and are there for them is a great start.
After that find out what your friend needs and help organize the people who can meet these needs. I was unable to drive for several weeks after my mastectomy and tram flap reconstruction. My incredible friends setup a car pool schedule and picked-up my children from school everyday until I could drive again. They also did groceries, ran errands and helped out in anyway I needed. The peace of mind their help gave me was invaluable in helping me recover.
I am eternally grateful to them for the gift of their kindness and time.
Providing frozen casseroles and home- made dinners is also a great help. Chemotherapy treatments can be very tiring and having premade meals is a true convenience.
Lastly, be prepared to listen when needed, comfort when required and sit in silence at times.
A cancer diagnosis is difficult but good friends can make it so much more bearable.

Be Well,
Ines