How to Help Others With Lung Cancer

The disease known as lung cancer is caused by the unchecked growth of abnormal cells within the lungs. If left untreated, these cancerous cells may eventually spread to other parts of the body, such as the chest cavity, the bones or even the brain. Whether you have recovered from lung cancer or would just like to help others with this disease, there are a variety of volunteer opportunities at your disposal. You can help people understand what lung cancer is, how it can be treated and even how to live with the disease.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Learn as much as you can about the different types of lung cancer and their associated treatments. This knowledge may help you understand the physical and emotional side effects experienced by patients with lung cancer.

2. Understand the initial reaction of many cancer patients is to shut down and refuse to talk. You must accept that there will be times when it's too painful to discuss a diagnosis, treatment options or feelings.

3. Encourage communication without talking. A great way to do this is by keeping a journal. Many lung cancer patients have found journaling to be theraputic and liberating. Some patients even prefer to write down their thoughts and feelings for family and friends to read instead of talking about what they're going through.

4. Let people do things on their own. A common complaint many lung cancer patients have is friends and family tend to go overboard and turn the patient into an invalid. Unless the cancer is highly advanced, there's no reason light physical activities, housekeeping and errands can't be done.

5. Ask your own doctor for advice. Your doctor may have more knowledge about the limitations of cancer, and may be able to make suggestions for lifestyle changes you wouldn't have thought of, such as learning how to give a therapeutic massage.

Tips & Warnings

• Patients who undergo cancer treatment have the right to designate another individual to participate in treatment decisions should the patient become incapacitated.
• A cancer patient might have a lot of help and support when he or she is first diagnosed, but then become more isolated as time passes. Be sure to follow up your original concern by staying in touch and finding ways to help.
• Avoid giving advice to others with lung cancer. Your good intentions may be ill-received and you may inadvertently do more harm than good.

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