Others can encourage that readiness through their love and continued presence. Talking may include expressing anger, fear, and inner confusion. Emphasizing the uniqueness of each person, positive test results, or good response to treatment is true support, both valid and valuable. The person with cancer needs family or friends as a constant in a changing world. Sometimes, the whole family suspects the truth before the diagnosis is made.
Someone recognizes the symptoms, or the family doctor seems overly concerned.
It is often impossible to take in the diagnosis immediately. We hear it, but somehow we don't believe it. This is normal. People's minds have a wonderful capacity for absorbing information only as they are ready to accept it. All of us may not operate on the same emotional timetable.