How friends and family can help. . . when a loved one has breast cancer.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

• Shock of diagnosis of a life-threatening disease
• Confusion with choices of surgery and treatment
• Concerns about self-image due to surgery and treatment
• Worry about reactions of friends and family members
• Fear and uncertainty about the future

DO:

• Listen
• Offer specific help with household chores, meals, transportation, child care, etc.
• Take cues from the person
• Let feelings be expressed
• Expect mood changes
• Be there

DON'T:

• Tell the person what to do
• Avoid the person
• Share horror stories
• Be afraid of the person's sadness ... it's normal.