How to Help a Friend After a Cancer Diagnosis
“My friend was just diagnosed with cancer. How can I help, or what can I send them?”
That’s the question I get asked most often, and it comes straight from the heart of true caregivers❣️
After I was diagnosed, I was pleasantly surprised when friends and family sent a variety of thoughtful gifts. At that time I didn’t know anyone else who had been diagnosed with cancer so young and would not have had a clue what to get a person in my situation. Yet I received so many wonderful things; some simply kind, others genuinely helpful for getting through treatment and staying positive.
Now, as a breast cancer survivor, I’m quick to share the things that made the biggest difference when people ask me how they can help their friend or loved one. And when the topic came up with my local support group recently, everyone agreed: these are the go-to favorites.
Here are the 5 most thoughtful and helpful ways to show up for someone facing cancer (or any illness):
💌 Gift cards for food delivery from local restaurants (like DoorDash, Grubhub, or Uber Eats)
🧦 Cozy socks or soft loungewear (my favorites: grippy and smiley for chemo, super soft and warm for home)
🧩 Activity books, puzzles, or a journal (coloring and encouragement)
🍋 Queasy drops or anti-nausea tea (queasy drops and green tea are good for anyone)
📚 Cheerful or funny cards & books (not about cancer! - great options to take your mind off things)
Bonus: If you live nearby, offer specific help: pick up groceries, drop off meals, drive kids places, or join your friend for a walk.
At the end of the day, it’s not about the gift itself—it’s about showing up with empathy and reminding your friend they’re not alone. That’s the best way to help someone during the storm. 💕
Photo credit: Vitaly Gariev
#whatworkedformeweds
