Build Your Support Team

Those who give also receive

Do any of these describe your thoughts?

• I always did things for myself.
• I don't like to bother others.
• I'm used to being the caretaker.
• Asking for help is a sign of weakness.

Many people facing cancer have a hard time asking for help. But when you give people the chance to help you, you're also helping them out. After all, most folks want to feel useful.

Sometimes, others don't know what to do or say around a person with cancer. Their fear might even lead them to pull away from you. But if you offer people specific ways to help, many will step forward. They can run errands, make a meal, drive you to a medical appointment, or stop at the video store for you. Helping out may be a way for people who care to deal with their own fears or sadness about your condition.

There are many places to look for help, including:

• Family and friends
• People in cancer support groups
• Members of your spiritual or religious community
• Health care providers (nurses, doctors, pharmacists, dietitians, social workers, patient educators, psychologists, and other mental health professionals)
• Hospital staff (patient advocates and discharge planners)

Think about building a team of people who can support each other while they also help you.