They have certain ways of communicating with each other. After a diagnosis of cancer, the structure of the family can be greatly changed. Communication patterns can be disrupted. People may be afraid to say things to each other in the same way as they did before. The balance of power in the family can be affected such as when family members are unable to work or take responsibility for things they did before or since the diagnosis of cancer.
Family counseling can provide education and support.
But it should also help you and your family to regain your balance in the face of cancer. One way to do this is by recognizing that both you and your family work together to help each other in coping with the disease. Support is not a one way street flowing from the family to the individual with cancer. Know your limits. No one is able to accomplish everything.