Supporting your partner, family member or close friend with bladder cancer is a valued role — but it can be an overwhelming one. Your loved one will need support on emotional, physical and practical levels to manage symptoms and treatment.
Ways to help your loved one with bladder cancer
Every person with bladder cancer will experience diagnosis, symptoms and treatment in their own way. Their approach to the disease will vary depending on their age, overall health, level of independence and attitude. The best way you can support them is by being present and accompanying them as they grapple with a life-changing diagnosis.
Understanding bladder cancer
Becoming familiar with bladder cancer and the different treatments will be useful as you help your loved one navigate medical appointments and side effects. Learning about basic terms and what your loved one may encounter will help you provide better support during their journey.
Don’t feel you need to become an expert, though, and be aware that being too well-informed can sometimes create additional anxiety.
Read more about bladder cancer treatment and care
Providing emotional support
Being diagnosed with bladder cancer is a shock, and the journey through treatment and recovery can create feelings of fear and frustration.
Be supportive by listening to your loved one when they need to express their feelings. Try not to offer a solution or the assurance that everything will be fine. Encourage your loved one to consider joining a support group or talking to a mental health professional.
Providing practical support
Your availability and patience will be appreciated when your loved one needs help with daily life. Specific offers of help are more likely to be accepted than well-meaning open-ended offers. Offer to walk the dog, cook a meal, do the laundry or drive them to and from an appointment.
It’s especially important to offer practical support during treatment. Recovery from surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy is made easier when someone is there to look after you. Physical recovery and potential side effects require rest and medication.
Keeping track of medical information
People living with serious illnesses often find it difficult to remember all the information they receive and rely on a friend or caregiver to help keep track of the details.
Create a file system for all medical reports, imaging, blood results and prescriptions so your loved one has an accessible and comprehensive record of their bladder cancer journey. Help prepare for medical appointments by noting down any questions or concerns that your loved one would like to share. Offer to attend appointments, too, and keep notes of what was discussed.
Remember to take care of yourself, too
The role of a carer can take its toll emotionally and physically. Care providers must also practice self-care to protect their physical and mental well-being as they accompany a loved one on the journey through treatment and recovery.
Remember to take time away from providing support to your loved one. Maintain your own interests and social connections, stay healthy and active and be proactive in sharing the burden by asking for help.
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