How to Share the News About
Your Cancer
It’s easy to pronounce, but if
you’ve just been diagnosed,
cancer can be the hardest
word to say.
However, talking with friends and family is healthy. It can help you cope and relieve feelings of isolation and frustration. Try the following advice when it’s time to break the news.
- Use words that are comfortable for you. There’s no one right way to discuss your disease.
- Get help. Make a list of people you want to tell personally. Then, ask a family member or trusted friend to follow up with others.
- Plan ahead. Most people will have questions about your prognosis or next steps. Think about how much you want to share—it’s up to you. There may be topics you feel uncomfortable discussing, such as treatment choices. Consider how to change the subject if they arise.
- With children, be gentle but honest. They’ll sense something is wrong and should hear about your cancer from you. Be calm and assure them they’ll be cared for.
