The tendency is to focus attention on the individual dealing first-hand with cancer. But the needs of the partner or main support-giver can often get lost in the haze. See if there is anything you can do to make this person's life a little easier. He or she may just need a willing ear to listen, may need company for an excursion to a distracting movie, or may need something completely different to take his or her mind off things. If you reach out, you may be able to provide more help than you can imagine.
Support people refers to parents, good friends, spouses, kids, etc.
Caner is stressful on everyone. Over the Phone, be Sensitive to the Needs of Your Friend Cancer survivor can feel overwhelmed by telephone calls. Always ask if your timing is appropriate, and if it isn't, then just convey your good wishes and offer your friend the option to call you back when convenient. See if there is a particular time for convenient phone calls. And be sensitive to the possibility that your friend may need short breaks from phone contact at difficult times.