Learning to Love Your Loved Ones Well

March is a time to celebrate the love we have for our friends and family.                  That being said, we first challenge you to text or call those that you love and let them know you love them. Second, we know how hard it is to show your loved ones with cancer how much you love them. You don’t want to say or do something that hurts them. We understand! Cancer is one of life’s greatest challenges, and it’s important that we are sensitive to those that are struggling with it. Fortunately, we’ve been in the business of serving cancer patients for quite some time now. We’ve compiled a list of things you can say and do to show your loved ones how much you love them.

What to Say

More often than not, it’s better to do than to say. Even so, you want to comfortably make conversation that doesn’t hurt anyone. Before you say anything, go in with a mindset of love, empathy, and learning. Be willing to mess up and learn from your mistakes. Treat them with respect, and everything will fall into place.                                                                                   

Here are a few tips:

 

• Pay attention to mood cues – sometimes they may need a good laugh and other times they may just need a listening ear.
• Avoid talking about yourself too much, especially about the bad day you may have had. Don’t put them in a position where they have to comfort you.
• Avoid asking “what can I do to help,” as they likely won’t ask for anything so as to not inconvenience you.
• Ask questions like “I am dropping by Sonic, what drink would you like?” or “I’m grabbing a snack from Target. Are you craving something sweet or salty?”

What to Do

If you really want to show kindness to your loved one with cancer, doing is the best thing you can… do! Actions speak louder than words, and it eases the stress of having to take action themselves.

What you can do:

• Bring by meals (ask what they’re feeling up to first!)
• Walk their dogs
• Babysit their kids
• Clean up around their house
• Send care packages
• Pray for them and with them
• Hold their hand and listen

 

Where to Give

If you’re too far to visit or you don’t personally know anyone with cancer, you can still provide loving support. At Tenaciously Teal, we send out care packages and provide funds to those in need. We are always looking for gifts in the form of package stuffers and donations. We appreciate anything and everything you’re able to give, no matter the amount/item.

If you are in the position to give, you can do so now at teal.org/give.

At the end of the day, cancer is no walk in the park. Your loved ones will appreciate your presence no matter how you choose to support them in their fight. Simply enter every conversation with grace, and keep these points in mind as you help them navigate their battle.                                                                                                                                                            Your love is greatly appreciated.