The Mighty Logo

The most helpful emails in health
Browse our free newsletters

Two cancer survivors share advice on what you should and shouldn’t say to someone diagnosed with cancer.

Transcription:

Here’s What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Say to Someone With Cancer

Instead of saying: “What caused your cancer?”

Say: “Are there any symptoms I should look out for in my own body?”

Instead of saying: “Someone I know passed away from cancer.”

Say: “I know someone who had cancer. Would you like to hear about some things that they found helpful?”

Instead of saying: ”Let me know if there’s anything you need.”

Say: “I am going to do XYZ for you.”

Instead of saying: “You are brave.”

Say: “I can’t imagine how you feel.”

Instead of saying: “Stay positive. I hear having a positive attitude helps.”

Say: “I know always being positive can be hard. How are you really doing?”

Instead of saying: “This is all part of God’s plan.”

Say: “This is a tough time. I’m here for you.”

 

Written by Justin Birckbichler

Originally published: November 29, 2017
Want more of The Mighty?
You can find even more stories on our Home page. There, you’ll also find thoughts and questions by our community.
Take Me Home