Healing Communications
Ways of communicating with your loved ones
It’s important to understand that it’s not personal if a loved one with cancer doesn’t respond to your text, phone message or email. They are likely very overwhelmed by the diagnosis itself and all of the new administrative burdens of having cancer. There are lots of ways to send support that don’t require extra energy from the person receiving it:
Video message saying you love them and are sending strength
Texting funny Youtube videos for a quick laugh
Share an uplifting Spotify or iTunes song (check which platform they have access to). You could even make them a custom playlist for them to listen to during treatments
E-cards
Video cards, great for multiple families. (eg. https://joy.cards/ which are free and fantastic)
Photo of you holding up a sign saying “Team Sharon/Lisa/Jen” or “I love you”
Healing quotes for your loved one with cancer
“I’m so sorry you’re going through this, but I want you to know
I’m here for you no matter what”
“I’m thinking of you and sending all my love and strength your way.”
“I’m here with you every step of the way.”
“I know this is tough, but you are tougher.”
“I just want you to know that I’m here for you. I know you are going through a lot right now. If you ever want to call or text and vent or chat, I’m here.”
“All of your feelings are welcome with me.”
“You’re not alone. I’m here to help you get through this.”
“You mean so much to me, and I’m here for you,
no matter what you need.”
“Even on the hardest days, know that you have a whole team of people rooting for you.”
“I know this is so emotionally and physically hard, but I believe in your strength and resilience.”
“If you ever feel like talking, venting, or just sitting in silence,
I’m here for you.”
“I know things are uncertain, but I’m certain of one thing—you have so many people who care about you..”
Should you ask, “How are you?”
For many people going through illness, it can be hard to be asked “How are you?” by text or in person. This is a very hard question to answer honestly when one is ill, and the default of answering positively can feel very disingenuous.
Some alternatives to “How are you?”:
“It’s good to see you.”
“Checking in on you because you are
in my thoughts. No need to reply.”
“These days must be rough
Know that I am thinking of you.”
“Sending strength
and healing energy. You are loved.”
Empowering phrases for people with cancer
Boundary setting can be difficult at the best of times, and self-advocacy is a skill that takes time and practice to learn. Here are some go-to phrases:
“I don’t have the bandwidth for that”
“I’m not comfortable with that” or “I don’t consent” (very useful in medical situations where you need more information before agreeing to something)
"I really appreciate your support, but I need some time to rest now."
"I know you’re trying to help, but I have a treatment plan I trust. Thank you for understanding."
"I’m feeling tired and need some quiet time. Can we catch up later?"
"Cancer is part of my life right now, but I’d love to talk about something else today."
"Thank you for asking, but I’d rather keep things light today."
"I appreciate your offer, but I’m handling things right now. I’ll let you know if I need help."
Affirmations for Successfully Navigating Cancer
is a short track that encourages healing communication with yourself.
It can be found anywhere you listen to podcasts