A caregiver is often a family member or friend who provides important physical, practical, and emotional support to a person with cancer. Caregiving makes a difference in the quality of life and well-being of the person who is ill. Caregivers may have a range of responsibilities on a daily or as-needed basis.
Caregivers are an instrumental part in providing support to their loved ones who have cancer and become involved in many aspects of their healthcare. Caring for a loved one can become challenging. Caregiver challenges could include physical, financial and emotional stress, less time for yourself and family, and the feeling of isolation or loneliness. Be willing to ask for help during challenging times.
Please contact a Patient Advocate at Cancer Services if you would like to learn more about the services that we offer that might be able to aid you as you care for your loved one. You will also find some helpful resources below.
Caregiver Tools
Cancer.gov – Caregiver Resources – In addition to authoritative information about each type of cancer, the National Cancer Institute provides information to help you care for the cancer patient in your life — and yourself.
Caring Bridge – A CaringBridge website is a free personal health journal, rallying friends and family during any type of health journey.
Lotsa Helping Hands Care Calendar is a free website to organize the help needed for families during a time of illness, recovery or a life-changing event. Through the site, you can easily coordinate sign-ups for meals and other needs, see what’s needed and when, keep everyone updated with photos and news updates and much more.
Trellis Supportive Care – Grief Counseling – When a loved one dies, mourning is an essential step in the healing process. Local counselors work with clients to validate the experience of grief and find strength and coping skills through one-on-one and group sessions.
