People may find it hard to ask for practical help. Try to be as specific as possible with your offers, for example, “Would you like me to mind the kids on treatment days?”
| Go grocery shopping, help with cleaning or laundry, or make some meals. | Help with jobs around the garden. |
You’re just not in the headspace to plan what you need done … it was much more useful and more meaningful to have people just do things off their own bat, and I found that was really touching.
Suzanne
Coordinate offers of help online through a group email or closed social media group.
Sit with them while they are having treatment.
| Mind children or pets. | Drive them to treatment or a support group meeting. |
Learn about what is less helpful…
More resources
Need to talk?
Call 13 11 20 to talk to a health professional Or email us your questions.
Support services
Coping with cancer?
Speak to a health professional or to someone who has been there, or find a support group or forum
Looking for transport, accommodation or home help?
Practical advice and support during and after treatment
Cancer information
What is cancer?
How cancer starts and spreads
Caring for someone with cancer
Practical tips on balancing the demands of caring, family, work and your own needs