How to support someone with cancer
Caring for someone with cancer is a big job. You don't need to be perfect. Showing up matters most.
Practical help
- Go to appointments and take notes.
- Keep a list of medicines, side effects and questions.
- Know the warning signs on our side-effect pages, especially a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
- Offer specific help: "I'll bring dinner Tuesday" works better than "let me know".
- Help with rides, kids, pets and paperwork.
Emotional support
- Listen more than you advise.
- Follow their lead on what they want to talk about.
- From a distance: regular texts, calls, cards and practical gifts like meal delivery.
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Take care of yourself too
Caregiver burnout is real. Sleep, eat, take breaks and accept help.
- CancerCare: Free counseling, support groups and financial help
- Cancer Support Community: Support groups, a helpline and the MyLifeLine online community
- Imerman Angels: Free one-on-one matching with a survivor or caregiver mentor
- American Cancer Society: 24/7 helpline (1-800-227-2345), rides to treatment, lodging and information
Written by the Cancer Side Effects Guide team from FDA labels and leading cancer centers. Not medical advice. · Last updated: October 15, 2026 · How we write
Not medical advice. This page is general information to help you talk with your care team. It can't replace advice from your doctor or nurse. If you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher during treatment, or any symptom that worries you, call your care team now. In an emergency, call 911.