Caring for someone

Booklet:  Caring for Someone with Cancer (793kb)

This information is for people who are looking after someone with cancer. You may have only recently found out that the person has cancer and you will be their carer. Or you may have been caring for someone for a while. You may not even think of yourself as a carer - you may think that what you are doing is just part of your relationship with the person.

Whichever situation you are in, you may be trying to come to terms with the news that someone you know has cancer and that you will play a big part in the journey through their illness. 

You may have questions about what caring for someone with cancer means. How will you cope with your emotions and theirs? How will you manage their physical needs? Perhaps you are worried about how it may affect your day-to-day life, your relationship with that person and others in your life. You may be looking for extra information, tips and strategies or reassurance about your feelings and how you are coping.

Cancer is a very difficult and stressful experience for everyone involved. Many people say that it can also be a rewarding and life-changing time. We want to especially acknowledge the difficulties and rewards for you, the carer.

The term ‘carer' doesn't sit well with everyone. You may find it strange to be ‘labelled' in this way. But for many people it is a positive way of explaining their situation and the significance of what they are doing. However you feel about this term we hope that you will find this booklet useful. We aim to guide and support you in your role as a carer and provide you with information that will help you better understand your emotions. We discuss ways of caring for and supporting the person with cancer as well as looking after your own important needs and commitments along the way.

Everyone is unique and will experience and do things slightly differently. Your role as a carer will depend on many factors, such as the stage of the person's cancer. We suggest you use this booklet as a general guide. Read the sections that you feel will be helpful for you. Your family and friends may also find it helpful to read this booklet. It can help them understand what being a carer involves and how their love and support will help you.

You can telephone the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.