How to Respond When a Newly Diagnosed Person Reaches Out

As a cancer survivor, you may feel honored to provide help for a newly diagnosed person. They might reach out to ask for firsthand information because you’ve traveled the road before. Or, the person might want assurance that you’ll truthfully share information about your journey. Perhaps they need someone to walk beside them along their journey and help them feel less afraid.

Be gentle with the newly diagnosed person. It takes courage to reach out to a stranger for support. Let the person ask the questions they need. Answer them in an open, honest manner. Don’t overwhelm the person with too much information too quickly.

Spend more time listening than talking. You may pick up on things that aren’t spoken. Communicate camaraderie and understanding. Show that there is hope for the future.

If you or someone you know is battling cancer, reach out to Chix 4 a Cause. Learn more about our Gifts of Love program at chix4acause.org today.