Thoughtful Ways to Support a Loved One with Cancer

When someone you care about is going through cancer, it’s natural to want to help—but not always easy to know how. Every situation is different, but small, intentional acts of kindness can make a world of difference. Whether you’re a close friend, family member, or part of a caring community, here are some practical and meaningful ways to offer support.

Drop Off Pre-Made Meals

Preparing meals can be exhausting during treatment. Offering pre-made, easy-to-reheat meals can ease the daily stress of cooking and ensure your loved one gets the nourishment they need. Consider coordinating a meal train with other friends and neighbors to space out deliveries and avoid overwhelming them with too much at once.

Help with Transportation

Cancer treatments often mean frequent medical appointments. Offering to drive your loved one to and from the cancer center. Organizing a schedule among trusted friends can relieve a major burden. Don’t forget about their families, too. Helping get their children to school, practice, or events can mean a lot.

Host a Local Fundraiser

Even with insurance, cancer care can bring unexpected financial strain. Hosting a fundraiser whether it’s a bake sale, a community car wash, a benefit dinner, or a Facebook campaign can provide both financial relief and emotional encouragement by showing how many people care.

Give the Gift of Normalcy

Offering to do everyday errands like grocery shopping, laundry, or walking the dog helps restore a sense of normalcy when everything else feels uncertain. Even checking in with a simple, “Thinking of you—what do you need today?” can help someone feel less alone.

Support Their Mental and Emotional Health

Just being present can mean the world. Send a handwritten card, drop off their favorite book, or invite them (when they’re up to it) to a quiet walk or coffee. Let them lead the conversation—they may want to talk about their experience, or they may just want to laugh and feel like themselves again.

No act of kindness is too small.
If someone you love is going through cancer, your support, whether through a simple meal or a helping hand can bring comfort, ease stress, and remind them that they’re not facing this alone.

If you or someone you know is in need of compassionate, close-to-home cancer care, Grand Lake Regional Cancer Center is here to help. Visit www.grandlakecancercenter.org or call 419-394-9563.