10 Tips for Family Caregivers

A new diagnosis of cancer not only affects the patient, but can significantly affect close friends and family as well.  Many times, these close loved ones will be asked to serve in the role as caregiver to the patient who is fighting cancer. Caring for someone who is sick, taking on new responsibilities, and worrying about the future can be exhausting at the very least.  It is important to remember that caregivers who take care of their own needs and get the information, help, and support they need are better prepared to take care of their loved ones.

There are many resources available to caregivers and/or family members of patients who have cancer.  All of the below organizations and foundations have information and resources specifically to help caregivers.

• The American Cancer Society
• The National Cancer Institute
• CancerCare 
• Cancer Support Community
• Family Caregiver Alliance
• Caregiver Action Network