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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
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Some families find it difficult to talk about leukaemia or share their feelings.
You might think it’s best to pretend that everything is fine, and carry on as normal. You might not want to worry the person with leukaemia, or you may feel you are letting them down if you admit to being afraid. Unfortunately, denying strong emotions like this can make it even harder to talk, and may lead to the person with leukaemia feeling very isolated.
Partners, relatives and friends can help by listening carefully to what and how much the person with leukaemia wants to say. Don’t rush into talking about the illness. Often it’s enough just to listen and let the person talk when they are ready.
We have more information about how to talk to someone with cancer|, written specifically for relatives and friends of people with cancer. It looks at some of the difficulties people may have when talking about cancer and leukaemia, and suggests ways of overcoming them.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.