Treatment FAQ

what to say to someone undergoing medical treatment

by Nayeli West II Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Here are five ideas for what to say to a patient or caregiver: 1. “I wish things were going better.” OR “I wish this was not happening to you.” These statements show that you care about their wellbeing and sincerely want them to experience the better parts of life.

Full Answer

What to say to a sick person undergoing treatment?

Sep 16, 2019 · A more appropriate, supportive response to someone going through a challenging medical time would be “I hope the treatment is successful, wishing you the best outcome” or “I am sure you must get tired, I bet those naps help.”

What to say to someone who is going through cancer treatment?

Jul 19, 2021 · If you’re texting or talking via email, here's what to say when someone is sick with cancer: “I wanted to remind you how much of a boss you are. You’re one of the strongest people I’ve ever met. You’re gonna kick this thing’s butt, I know it.” “Checking in to say I love you and you’re going to get through this.

What to say to someone going through a challenging medical time?

Feb 20, 2019 · If you’re struggling to find the right words, here are 12 kind things to say to someone with cancer: 1. “I’m here for you.” Show up for your loved ones and remain by their side as they go through this process. And if you say these words, make sure you mean them, and support them through thick and thin. 2. “You are in my thoughts and prayers.”

What to say to a patient who is having surgery?

Oct 02, 2021 · So here are a few things you can say to help the person admitted to the hospital (and yourself) feel more at ease. 29. "I am praying for peace and strength to get you through and get well soon" 30....

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What to say to someone who is going through treatment?

Here are some ideas:
  • "I'm not sure what to say, but I want you to know I care".
  • "I'm sorry to hear that you are going through this".
  • "How are you doing?"
  • "If you would like to talk about it, I'm here".
  • "Please let me know how I can help".
  • "I'll keep you in my thoughts".
Jun 1, 2021

What do you say to someone starting cancer treatment?

Helpful Things to Say to a Person with Cancer
  1. “I don't know exactly what to say, but please know how much I care.”
  2. “What can I do for you?”
  3. “I'm always here if you ever want to talk.”
  4. “I'm so sorry this happened to you.”
  5. Use humor, but only if you know it will be received positively. ...
  6. No words, just listen.

How do you comfort someone with a diagnosis?

How to Support Someone After a Difficult Diagnosis
  1. Listen and follow their cues on how to best show your support.
  2. Offer to help with big and small tasks: do laundry, attend appointments, provide transportation.
  3. If they turn down your help, don't force it; let them know you're available if they ever want it.
Jun 24, 2019

How do you write a letter of encouragement for a cancer patient?

Consider phrases like:
  1. I'm here for you.
  2. I'm thinking of you.
  3. You're on my mind and in my heart.
  4. I want to help.
  5. You are not alone.
  6. I'm here with you every step of the way.
  7. You can call on me anytime.
Mar 27, 2021

How do you give an emotional support to a cancer patient?

Here are 7 tips to maintain or improve emotional well-being for cancer patients and caregivers:
  1. Talk to someone who is not a family member. ...
  2. Continue with daily activities, but modify if necessary. ...
  3. Plan ahead. ...
  4. Find support that works for you. ...
  5. Balance in-person and online support. ...
  6. Tap your community. ...
  7. Reach out.
Sep 11, 2020

How do you respond to cancer news?

Top Tips
  1. Listen actively without judgement.
  2. Be present, keep eye contact and provide your full attention.
  3. Notice cues from the person, and respond to these.
  4. Acknowledge what has been said.
  5. Offer specific practical support such as cooking meals or transport to an appointment.
  6. Ask permission to raise sensitive topics.

How can I help a friend with health issues?

9 Ways to Support a Friend With a Serious Illness
  1. Ask what kind of friend the person needs you to be. ...
  2. Offer specific help. ...
  3. Make plans. ...
  4. Send notes and cards. ...
  5. Visit when possible. ...
  6. Offer to chauffeur or even attend appointments. ...
  7. Organize support teams. ...
  8. Focus on the positive, but not overly.

What to say to someone who has a terminal illness?

  • Don't say, “It's going to be OK” ...
  • But do say something. ...
  • Do make clear that you'll be there for them. ...
  • Do be careful about saying, “I'll pray for you” ...
  • Do try to create a semblance of normalcy. ...
  • Do ask how they're doing — today. ...
  • Do be a good listener. ...
  • Don't get squirmy at the end.
Apr 23, 2018

How do you deal with a loved one with a terminal illness?

Eat well, get plenty of rest and get some exercise. Some people find it helps to write down how they feel about their loved one. Some people find it helps to go to a support group and talk to others who have lost people close to them. Be patient with yourself.

What are some words of encouragement?

150 Words of Encouragement
  • This is what you're going through, not who you are.
  • “ ...
  • You are doing awesome!
  • This is tough, but you're tougher.
  • Don't stress. ...
  • Good luck today! ...
  • You're making a big change, and I'm so proud of you!
  • Sending some good vibes and happy thoughts your way.
Jul 20, 2021

What are the best inspirational quotes?

Short motivational quotes
  • “Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.” — ...
  • “Opportunities don't happen, you create them.” — ...
  • “Love your family, work super hard, live your passion.” — ...
  • “It is never too late to be what you might have been.” —
Sep 2, 2020

What to say after surgery?

7. “Things will be better after your surgery.”. At times, surgery is presented to the patient as just one choice for treatment. Say positive things about the choice.

What to do if your friend is weak after surgery?

Your friend or family member will probably be weak after surgery and may require some TLC. Reassure the patient that you will be there to help during the recovery process. Perhaps your family member will need assistance getting in and out of bed or maybe your friend will need rides to physical therapy.

Why is my family looking forward to surgery?

Your friend or family member may be looking forward to the surgery because a healthy life will follow recovery.

Can a family member be weak after surgery?

Your friend or family member will probably be weak after surgery and may require some TLC. Reassure the patient that you will be there to help during the recovery process. Perhaps your family member will need assistance getting in and out of bed or maybe your friend will need rides to physical therapy. Sometimes a successful recovery requires a team effort.

Can you see your friend after surgery?

You may not see your friend or loved one before or after surgery. You may need to write “get well” messages to him or her on a greeting card like this or a social media page. These messages can also make a care package or other surgery gifts extra special. Here are some things you could write to show your support.

Is surgery presented to the patient as just one choice for treatment?

At times, surgery is presented to the patient as just one choice for treatment. Say positive things about the choice. After all, what good will it do to second-guess a decision that the patient has already made?

How to compliment a sick person?

You are complimenting the sick person by letting him/her know that you think he/she is a good person. It also lets him/her know that you have his/her back during this difficult time.

Why is it important to offer your ear to someone who is sick?

This is a good thing to say because a sick person may really want to vent emotions, but he/she likely does not want to put the burden on anyone else. Offering your ear can help the person feel like he/she has someone for encouragement.

Why do some people not want to share their diagnosis?

Sometimes, patients do not want to share the diagnosis right away; this is usually because they are still coming to terms with it.

Why is it so hard to find the right words of encouragement?

Finding the right words of encouragement can be tricky because there is a lot of sensitivity to be given to the message. Saying the wrong thing can cause the sick person to fret or feel even worse. Here are more than 25 examples of the most appropriate words of encouragement for sick person.

What to say when someone is terminally ill?

When someone is terminally ill, the circumstances are more grave. However, the tone and intent of your message shouldn’t change. You should still offer warmth, encouragement, and support, no matter how much time they may have left. It’s your choice on how you want to impact their time here — so make it enjoyable.

How to avoid making comments about a diagnosis?

Avoid making comments about how serious or benign you think a diagnosis is, especially if you don’t have a medical background. You should also refrain from sharing opinions about a person’s care regimen. In brief, know your place. If you are not a decision-maker for someone who is ill, do not act like one.

What to do if someone is not a decision maker?

If you are not a decision-maker for someone who is ill, do not act like one. Use your time with them to focus on the positive and how much you care for them. If you'd prefer to send a card and are looking for card messages, take a look at our guide to what to write in a card for someone with terminal cancer.

Can you go through cancer alone?

Getting a diagnosis of cancer — regardless of the type or stage — is something no one should go through alone. It’s understandable that some people are fiercely private, and you may hear of someone’s diagnosis through the grapevine. However, sharing some words of encouragement isn’t a bad idea.

Can you share a few words with someone who is sick?

If you’re unable to set aside extra time to spend with the person who is sick, sharing a few words with them in person, via text or email, or even on social media can still make them feel seen. Whether the person has been diagnosed with cancer, is terminally ill, or has a temporary illness, we provide suggestions for each below.

Does sickness guarantee a person will pass away?

There's a huge connection between outlook and outcome in just about any trying circumstance. Sickness may not guarantee a person will pass away, however, there are resources out there for dealing with grief as well as how to offer condolences .

Is it bad to say encouragement?

However, sharing some words of encouragement isn’t a bad idea. As long as you’re coming from a place of care and respect, you can’t go wrong. Here are some ideas for what to say in a few different scenarios. It’s important to note that you should not compare illnesses or individuals.

What to say to someone with cancer?

If you’re struggling to find the right words, here are 12 kind things to say to someone with cancer: “I’m here for you.”. “You are in my thoughts and prayers.”. “This stinks.”. “Let me help you with…”. Tell a joke. “You are not alone.”. “Any time you need to talk, I’ll listen.”. “What day works for a visit?”.

How to help someone who is unknown?

While they enter a new hurdle of their life, you can help by creating some familiarity for them during a period of unknown.

How to show support to a friend?

During this difficult time, it’s crucial to show your support by planning regular visits. This will give your friend or family member a sense of community and help them feel like things are more normal. For example, the CaringBridge Planner helps you coordinate care and organize needs like bringing meals, rides to doctor appointments or taking care of pets.

How to show up for a visit?

Visit your loved one whether they’re at home or in the hospital. Showing up can also be as simple as sending a text or a call. Sometimes it is the small gestures that matter the most.

How to make someone feel positive?

A little motivation goes a long way. Pump your loved one up. Make them feel powerful. Whatever words you choose to convey this, they may appreciate the positivity despite a negative situation.

What to say instead of asking your loved one how you can help?

This is one of the most helpful things you can say. Instead of asking your loved one how you can help, tell them specifically what you’re able to help with. Treatment, doctor’s appointments and physical symptoms make it difficult to keep up with day-to-day life.

How can listening help someone with cancer?

Having someone there to just listen can be enormously helpful for someone with cancer. They’re experiencing a lot of emotions, and you can provide an outlet for whatever they want to talk about.

How to support a person who is not well?

You can support that person by bringing them a get well soon or make time to take care of the things they need to be done in their home. You can also simply support them by visiting and speaking with them during their stay.

How to feel better?

"Give yourself whatever gifts of time and rest you need to feel better – and know that you’re surrounded by caring thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt wishes. Rest easy. Get well."

Why are people worried about what's going to happen next?

Because of how new the virus is and being that there is no known vaccine that has yet to be created , a lot of people are worried about what's going to happen next. And no one really knows what comforting things to say to someone who's been diagnosed with the disease, either.

Is it a burden to have a cold?

Whether you have a common cold or more severe illnesses, it can be a huge incon venience to not only you, but you feel as though you're a burden on your family and friends. Always make sure your loved one doesn' t feel like a burden for getting sick because it truly isn't their fault.

Is it stressful to be in the hospital?

Having someone in the hospital can be stressful and emotional. It's important to be there for those who have loved ones in the hospital, let them know you are thinking of them, and be a support system they can lean on.

What to say when someone is diagnosed with cancer?

That’s okay. The worst you can do is to say nothing. If you are open and honest with the person you love, a simple text message or short email may remind them that they are in your thoughts.

How often does a girl undergo chemotherapy?

Every week, she undergoes chemotherapy; every six months, scans are taken. Time hasn’t necessarily made it easier, but technology certainly has. While it is not always easy, I try to check in as much as possible.

What to do when someone is sick?

Especially for someone who is caring for a sick loved one….offer help, to run errands, cook a meal, come in an clean up, laundry, or just spend time together. Practical supports that mean a lot and give the person a much-needed respite.

What to do after saying "hear their hard news"?

The best thing you can do after saying this is simply listening. Hear their hard news and stay strong for them.

When all is said and done, love is what's left?

When all is said and done, love is what’s left. In the toughest of times, these words can be the difference between your loved one feeling like their challenges are impossible and feeling like they can do anything . So share the love as honestly and as often as you can. You never know how long it’s been since someone’s heard those words.

Can you say "I pity you"?

Never, never, never say “I pity you.” Someone said that to me when I was having cancer treatment, and I told the person that no one ever wants to be an object of pity. “I hate it that you’re going through this!” is a good phrase to use, in addition to the ones you suggested.

What to say to someone who is cancer?

Don't let cancer take anything from you that you don't want it to. I know you are stronger than cancer. I'm looking forward to you kicking cancer's butt. My hope for you is that you'll be as well as you can possibly be. You are a source of inspiration to me even as you face this challenge. I am praying for you.

How to comfort someone?

There are many ways to comfort and encourage someone. Make them food, give them a hug, pray for them, give them flowers or another gift, or just listen. None of these strategies have to include any specific words, but words are one useful way to express oneself. It's how you put them together that matters most.

What is the purpose of a get well card?

The purpose of the get well card is not to pass judgment or assign blame. Never reference death. The person with cancer may feel the fear of the unknown. Even predicting that cancer will not kill the person is drawing attention to the possibility. Focus instead on life, what the person can do, and what the person has.

What is my hope for you?

My hope for you is that you'll be as well as you can possibly be.

Can cancer be a person without cancer?

People who have cancer are just like people without cancer. They likely have other difficulties going on at the same time. So if you write about the diffult time they are having, they might wonder which difficulty you are referring to. There are many ways to comfort and encourage someone.

Should you treat someone who has cancer?

It does not make them who they are. They are still the person they were before. They are just going through a very difficult time and dealing with a lot. They know they have cancer and don't need to be reminded of that. They want to be treated like you would treat them if they weren't going through this. Thank you for listening.

Should I use the word "cancer" in a message?

Good point. You don't need to use the word cancer to be encouraging, but I wouldn't avoid the word for the sake of avoiding it. It could make your message come across as vague or weak. Sometimes, in the interest of being clear, it's a good idea to use direct language.

What to say to someone who has cancer?

Sometimes the right thing to say to a person who has cancer is nothing at all. Let the individual scream, shout, punch the wall, shake a fist to the sky, or whatever else will help. Listen to what the person has to say without judgment and make sure the individual knows that you’ll always be there, no matter what. Knowing that someone has one’s back through the roller coaster of a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be a great comfort.

What do you need to say to your friend?

Whatever I can do, whatever you need, all you need to do is ask. I'm here for you, my friend. Whatever you need, know that I'm going to be right here for you. Lean on me; that’s what friends are for. Whether you need a shoulder to cry on, a rock to support you or someone to listen to you yell, I am here.

How to help a cancer patient?

Cancer patients are facing a tough disease, but their fight doesn't have to be a lonely one. Let the cancer patient know that you are there for them. Convey that whatever the individual needs, however long it takes, you're going to be there to offer support.

What is an inspirational quote?

An inspirational quote from a celebrity or other high profile individual might be just what someone you care about who has cancer needs to hear. These can be good messages for cards, notes or letters, as well as for in-person conversations.

What motivates someone through cancer?

Each day brings new healing. Cancer can't take away your hope. Bravery and courage are two of your greatest assets.

Why is it important to say encouraging words to someone with cancer?

While it’s easy to feel helpless in this situation, it’s important to be aware that providing encouraging words for someone with cancer can be just the lift they need to help them get through the long, difficult road ahead.

Did cancer know what it was in for when it decided to hassle you?

Cancer didn’t know what it was in for when it decided to hassle you!

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