If a family member has advanced breast cancer, it can be a devastating blow to everyone. Advanced breast cancer is one of the later stages of the disease where tests indicate that the disease has spread to the lymph nodes and other areas of the body. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy and surgery may be performed depending on how much the cancer has spread. It is important that you help your family member through this difficult time.
Step 1
Be honest with the family member. Sometimes family members are the first to learn about the cancer diagnosis when it enters the advanced stages. It is important to tell the family member about the diagnosis in order to allow her to make informed medical decisions.
Step 2
Allow the person to vent to you. Unfortunately, you may end up the target of the patient's anger and frustration over the diagnosis of advanced stage breast cancer. Be sympathetic and keep your temper in check during this time. It is important that the patient knows that you will support and be there for her.
Step 3
Pitch in to take over the responsibilities of the family member. To help her, make sure she doesn't have to worry about daily tasks like shopping, cleaning, or caring for pets or children. If you are unable to take over the tasks on your own, ask other family members to help out. You may also want to consider pooling your money to hire outside assistance, such as a residential nurse, babysitter or housekeeper.
Step 4
Meet with doctors and other members of the patient's medical team. Act as the patient's liaison in order to find out the best treatment options available for advanced stage breast cancer. A mental health professional should be enlisted to help both you and the patient cope with the diagnosis.
Step 5
Join a breast cancer support group. Meet with others in order to find out how they helped their family members deal with breast cancer (see Resources below).
