Advice for Caregivers
Your role on the health care team
As the caregiver, you are a vital member of your friend or family member's health care team. Here are a few ways you can help as they begin treatment:
- Write down any questions that either of you would like to ask the doctor
- Offer to go with your family member or friend to medical appointments
- Find out if there are any special instructions and treatment tips your doctor recommends
- Keep track of medical information and paperwork
- Note any changes in symptoms or side effects
By understanding when Avastin can be taken, you can help keep your friend or family member's treatment on track.
Communication is key
Metastatic cancer changes the patient's life, your life, and the lives of family members. As a caregiver, you should talk with your friend or family member about these changes. Here are a few tips for creating a healthy dialogue:
- Ask if it's a good time to talk
- Be supportive, listen, and don't interrupt
- Practice what you'll say in advance
- Speak from the heart
- Remember that you can have more than one talk
- Don't always say, "It'll be okay"
Talking with children
It can be difficult to tell children what's happened to mom or dad. But it's important to be truthful and speak openly about cancer at an age-appropriate level. Let them know that it's okay to be upset, angry, or scared. Listen to them and be sure to make time for your children in any way you can.
Find the support you need
Remember, support can come in different ways. You may find support through a friend, online, or from a professional organization. Here are some places to start your search for support:
CancerCare*
Provides free professional help to caregivers and people with cancer through counseling, education, information, referrals, and direct financial assistance.
Visit www.cancercare.org or call 1-800-813-HOPE (1-800-813-4673)
National Family Caregivers Association*
Educates, supports, empowers, and speaks up for those who care for loved ones with a chronic illness or disability.
Visit www.thefamilycaregiver.org or call 1-800-896-3650
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- Genentech USA, Inc. is neither affiliated with nor endorses this organization. The information provided by Genentech USA, Inc. or this organization is meant for informational purposes only and is not meant to replace a physician's medical advice.
