General information How to talk
If your partner, relative or friend has cancer, talking openly will help you understand their experience and build mutual trust.
Someone I know has cancer
If your friend, relative, colleague or neighbour has cancer, it can be hard to know what to do for the best. We can help you find the right words and give you some tips to help you, because nobody should have to face cancer alone.
Watch: Do something amazing today
Dropping round with some DVDS. Cooking an extra meal. Offering a lift. Sometimes the smallest things really can make the world of difference.
Watch: Do something amazing today
Dropping round with some DVDS. Cooking an extra meal. Offering a lift. Sometimes the smallest things really can make the world of difference.
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Be a good listener
There’s no magic phrase that is the ‘right’ thing to say. The important thing is that you're there and you listen. Stay in touch whether through a visit, phone call, card, letter or email.
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Find ways you can help
It helps to be specific when offering help. You could ask ‘shall I do the shopping?’ 'Would you like me to pick the children up from school?'
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Talking about cancer at work
It may be difficult for your employee to talk about their diagnosis, but open communication may make it easier for you to support them.
General information The benefits of talking
Talking can help your loved one make sense of difficult experiences.
General information What your relative or friend may be facing
Understanding what your partner, relative or friend is facing will help you to support them.
General information Advice on talking to children and teenagers about cancer
Telling your children you have cancer is difficult. But being honest and involving them has many benefits.
Rocio and Gary on reaching out
You might also be interested in
Volunteer
Get involved
You don't have to climb mountains to give something back. People affected by cancer may need help with simple day to day tasks like shopping or cleaning. Browse our volunteering opportunities to see if you could help.
Our Life With Cancer advertising campaign
Related
We talked to lots of people living with and affected by cancer and a common thread came out: that whilst cancer is life-changing, it isn’t always life-defining.
In your area
Local area
What's happening near you? Find out about support groups, where to get information and how to get involved with Macmillan where you are.
Supporting a loved one with cancer?
Related
If you're supporting a loved one with cancer find more online information and support.
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