Resources and Tips for Caregivers

Caring for someone with cancer can be a deeply loving act, but it can also be exhausting, emotional, and isolating.

Some days may feel manageable, while others feel like too much. Both can be true.

Whatever you're feeling, you do not have to carry it all alone.

Here are some resources that may help:

• CancerCare - free counseling, support groups, education, and financial assistance for cancer caregivers.

• AOSW - find an oncology social worker, financial and insurance resources, support groups and a lot more. (highly recommend!)

• Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center - Information about cancer and treatment options, support, and resources. 

Caregivers often focus so much on supporting their loved one, that their own needs get pushed aside.

The truth is, caregivers need and deserve support too.

Here are a few ways to lighten your load while caring for someone else:

• People often want to help, but don't know how. 
  • Set up a Give InKind page to organize meal trails, request support or visits from family and friends, and share medical updates in one place.
• Determine your "second in command." 
  • Often a spouse or family member is a cancer patient's primary caregiver or support person. With your loved one, determine a second person who can handle this role when you need a break. This can be another family member, a trusted friend, or a therapist.
  • One person likely won't be able to fulfill every need, and it's unrealistic to expect this of yourself. Naming this secondary person early on lets them know that you'll need their help, and that they won't be overstepping by checking in frequently or offering assistance. 
• Keep a notebook or Google doc. 
  • Record questions, medication details, and resources in one place.
• Audio record your appointments to reference later when emotions are less intense. 
  • Especially important if the diagnosis is new, your loved one is experiencing brain fog from treatment, or if they are attending an appointment solo.
• Protect your energy.
  • Even short breaks, walks, or quiet time can help you reset, and briefly take your mind off things.
• You do not have to do everything perfectly. It is okay to be both strong and overwhelmed. Showing up with consistency, compassion, and flexibility is enough. 

If you are a caregiver, please remember that your well-being matters too. Taking care of yourself is not selfish.

It helps you keep going with more strength, clarity, and love. 

Sending love your way,

Michelle