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World Cancer Day: 5 Ways to Support a Cancer Survivor

I HAVE BEEN IN YOUR SHOES!

This World Cancer Day I am opening up about something we all experience, caring for our loved ones who are fighting cancer.

I know how painful it is to find that a loved one has cancer. It crushes you and makes you feel helpless. It leaves you wondering how to offer support in a way that they do not feel pity, burdened, or embarrassed.

Not just you and me, but 1 in 9 people in India are cancer survivors, according to several cancer research studies. This means many families and friends share similar experiences.

But, let’s end this misery on World Cancer Day 2025. In this blog, I am sharing incredibly helpful ideas for you. Implementing them will allow you to bring some relief and peace to the life of your cancer survivor relative/friend.

World Cancer Day Idea 1: Offer Concrete Help

80% to 100% of cancer patients experience extreme fatigue. This means your loved one may be exhausted and find it difficult to do housework, run errands, prepare meals, and care for their child. But they are hesitant to seek support from you.

They believe that asking for help and bothering you will be too much. Thus, they keep mum even when you offer to help. But don’t worry, on this World Cancer Day, let’s try something new. Instead of asking what to do, offer concrete help.

For example, rather than asking them what to get from the grocery store, say "I am doing a grocery run, give me the list of things you need and I’ll grab them." This will ease the pressure off them, zeroing the need for them to ask for help constantly.

Similarly, offer assistance with housework, meals, childcare, and more. This approach helps them feel comfortable and less guilty. Thus, it becomes easier for them to accept help and ease their daily life.

World Cancer Day Idea 2: Provide Financial Support

The cancer treatment costs in India amount to several lacs. It drains the patient’s financial resources. If you can, cover for their treatment, groceries, and other financial needs. Your help will lighten their mental load. It will show that you care for them deeply and allow them to focus on healing.

Besides supporting your loved ones, how about you stand up to Cancer Day for other cancer fighters? It may be impossible for you to offer concrete help to the unknown or become their companion, but you can always help them by donating to world cancer charity organizations.

The World Cancer Charity organizations help cancer patients who have no one like you to help them. They offer all the care and resources necessary for them during the tough times. Hence, this World Cancer Day 2025 pledge not to help just your loved ones, but also those who are alone and needy.

World Cancer Day Idea 3: Stay In Touch

As per cancer research, about 25% of cancer patients suffer from depression. This means besides medical care, emotional support is also the need of the hour. To help your loved one suffering from cancer ensure you stay in constant touch with them.

Besides, do things together such as jamming on favorite music or challenging them with crossword puzzles. This helps take their mind off the disease. But most importantly, be a patient, non-judgemental listener.

Allow them to vent and let them express negativity and withdrawal. Don’t change the topic so that they can express their emotions freely and ease up their mental chaos. At the same time let them know you are there, even if they don’t feel like talking.

Lastly, engage in conversations not related to cancer. Talk about something they love, be it sports, pets, religions, movies, etc. This will make them happy and bring some normalcy in their life.

World Cancer Day Idea 4: Gift a Curated Self-Care Bag

World Cancer Day is about offering support, and a thoughtful self-care gift bag is a meaningful way to do so. Cancer treatment can be draining, and small comforts can make a significant difference.

Include soft socks to keep them cozy, lip balm to soothe dry lips, unscented lotion for sensitive skin, herbal tea for relaxation, a warm blanket, and a journal for reflection. These items provide comfort, encourage self-care, and show you’re thinking of them.

World Cancer Day Idea 5: Spread Awareness

World Cancer Day, celebrated on February 4th, reminds us how cancer can take over a person’s identity. When someone is diagnosed, they might feel like the illness is all anyone sees, not who they really are.

Hair loss is a big issue that makes many patients feel embarrassed. By spreading awareness on World Cancer Day, you can help your loved one feel accepted. It shows them they’re not just their illness and gives them the strength to keep going.

These are the five important and thoughtful ways to help your friend or relative who is battling cancer. Whatever way you choose to help will be helpful in their journey of healing.