How to Support Testicular Cancer Patients

When a family member or friend becomes ill with cancer, we often want to offer support during this challenging time. Testicular cancer patients, in particular, may find it difficult to ask for the help and support they need. By respecting individual coping styles, you can offer the right support to patients dealing with testicular cancer.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Know what is required and expected. Testicular cancer generally affects men during their twenties and thirties, so asking for support may not come naturally to many patients. Find suggestions on how to offer support effectively on the American Cancer Society's Web site (see "Resources" below).

2. Offer to drive cancer patients to and from treatment sessions. Cancer treatment can be exhausting for some patients, and the comfort of not having to drive to and from the doctor's office may be greatly appreciated by these patients.

3. Prepare a meal and deliver it to the patient. Many cancer treatments may cause a loss of appetite, so maintaining a healthy diet is key.

4. Run errands for your friend with testicular cancer. Taking care of daily tasks allows the patient to focus on his recovery and get rest required to heal properly.

5. Raise funds and awareness for this disease by participating in fundraisers sponsored by organizations such as the American Cancer Society (see "Resources" below). You will honor your friend or loved one by raising money to advance research into the care and prevention of this cancer.

6. Recognize that there may be long-term effects from testicular cancer treatments, including infertility. If your spouse is diagnosed with testicular cancer, you may need to adjust your expectations regarding children. Discuss with him options like donating sperm before treatment. Keep the lines of discussion open regarding changes the disease has made in your lives even after treatment has ended.

Tips & Warnings

• Communicate with the patient about what level of involvement in doctor's appointments he expects from you. If desired, you may ask additional questions of the doctor that your friend or loved one may find difficult, such as what side effects to expect from a certain treatment.
• If your friend or loved one would like you to have access to their medical information, he will need to express his consent in writing. Patient information is protected under the HIPAA act and may not be shared with third parties without the formal consent of the patient.
• Recognize when your support is not enough for your friend or loved one. Dealing with testicular cancer can be emotionally trying, and many men face issues such as depression and anger, which may require the attention of a trained mental health professional.

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