Some families find it difficult to talk about cancer or share their feelings.
It may seem best to pretend that everything is fine and carry on as normal, perhaps because you don't want to worry the person with cancer or feel you are letting him or her down if you admit to being afraid. Unfortunately, denying strong emotions like this can make it even harder to talk together, and lead to the patient feeling very isolated. Partners, relatives and friends can help by listening carefully to what, and how much, the patient wants to say. Don't rush into talking about the illness. Often it is enough just to listen and let the patient talk when he or she is ready.