If someone you care about receives a diagnosis of brain cancer, you will certainly want to help. It can be difficult, however, to know exactly what to do. According to the Mayo Clinic, the incidence of brain tumors are increasing each year, increasing the chance that you will be called on to help a loved one. While you want to do things that make life easier for your friend or family member, it can be difficult to know exactly what to do. The best way to help someone with brain cancer is to know what symptoms he is experiencing so that you know where he may require help.
Step 1
Ask what they need. The simplest way to know what your loved one needs is to ask. You may be surprised at what they tell you. Someone experiencing blurred or double vision may appreciate you stopping by to read to them or drop off some books on tape. Someone experiencing balance issues that lives alone may wish a friend or neighbor would stop by long enough for them to take a shower, in case they lose their balance in the bathroom. As your loved one becomes less able to move around, they may appreciate someone stopping by with groceries or prepared meals. Finally, they may want someone willing to sit and listen to them, particularly if you are not an immediate family member. Often people with serious health conditions such as brain cancer find it difficult to discuss their fears with their spouse, parents or children.
Step 2
Do your own research. Know what the symptoms, treatment and side effects of brain cancer are, so you know what to expect. This makes it easier for you to anticipate your loved one's needs and talk to them intelligently about any concerns they have.
Step 3
Remember that everything isn't about illness. Brain cancer is a serious illness. It is easy to fall into a web of depression with your loved one. Don't focus your offers for help totally on the illness. On a beautiful day, call your loved one up and offer to take her for a drive. After a rough night, volunteer to bring ice cream and a movie. Patients with brain cancer often have difficulty maintaining their cognitive strength, experience headaches and vision problems and may develop hearing loss. Work around these issues to find activities that they can enjoy and escape from their illness for a short period.
Step 4
Form a group. No one expects you to support this person on your own. Define the person's greatest needs and form a support group to meet those needs. Brain cancer sufferers often develop personality changes that make some people uncomfortable. Spearhead an effort to keep your loved ones social circle intact by encouraging others to bring food, stop by to visit or drive them to doctors appointments on particular days.
Step 5
Don't forget the family. The family of someone suffering from brain cancer will experience a difficult time as well. As the disease progresses, it is likely that the closest caregivers will take over nearly every duty for the brain cancer sufferer. Offer help and respite for the family, but understand that at this point, they may prefer to be alone with their loved one. Everyone is different, however, and it is important to ask. Understand that you may not be as welcome as you were in the past, and be ready to offer help if needed.
Tips and Warnings
- If you feel overwhelmed, consider counseling
Things You'll Need
- Books and books on tape
- Medical information on brain cancer
- Transportation
