An Open Letter to Those Who Have a Loved One Diagnosed with Cancer

First of all, I just want to say that I’m sorry. I’m sorry that you have to go through this and I’m sorry that your loved one has cancer. I understand what you are going through, I personally have a mom who has been diagnosed twice with cancer. Each time it stung like nothing ever had before. Every cancer diagnosis is different, and every person has a different experience with cancer, but it is important to recognize that you are not alone. 

There are truly no words that I can give you to make everything magically okay again, but I can help you realize that however you feel about this situation is absolutely and completely valid, and do not let anyone let you feel any different. And I know that it gets exhausting hearing “I’m really sorry about (insert loved one)” because it brings back the reminder that this is your reality now. I always just have to remind myself that they are not trying to bring it up, but they want to make you feel better.

I want you to know that it is normal and healthy for you to let your loved one know that this is hard on you as well, just as long as you also try to take care of them too. And if it’s something that you don’t want to talk to your friends and family about, then therapy is always an option! Just because you don’t have the diagnosis, doesn’t mean that it isn’t hard on you either.

No matter what happens: you are strong, you are able to get through this, and you have people who love and support you no matter what. As someone who has gone through this twice, just know that things get better. Take every day as it comes.

Here are some resources if you want to talk with a counselor: 

Thriving Campus 

Better Help

You are capable of anything and everything and I am rooting for you! 

– Ivie

• cancer
• Cancer Awareness