Facing Cancer as a Couple

By Amanda Dobbs Whether you are just dating or you are years into a committed relationship, cancer can suddenly become part of your world. Knowing how to handle the impact of this disease can help both you and your loved one cope as you look toward the future. The advice below can help guide you as you face the stresses that come with cancer, regardless of how new or old your relationship may be. When the relationship is new If you’re just starting a relationship with someone, cancer may seem like an intense topic to discuss. But with so many more people surviving and thriving after diagnosis, dating and cancer are not mutually exclusive. RESOURCES: Access archived material from the AARP Family Caregiving FairTalking with the person who has cancerHelping children deal with cancer in the familyTalking to friends and family about your cancerBuy our book Couples Confronting Cancer A new partner to a person with cancer may feel overwhelmed by what cancer could mean when they’re still trying to establish a relationship. The person with cancer may not be sure what to expect or what to say either. The best thing to do on both sides is to try to communicate as openly and honestly as possible. The conversations you have may not always be easy, but they are essential to moving forward in the healthiest possible way. When it’s just the two of you In a more established relationship, it may be easier to talk about cancer, but it is still just as challenging ...
Source: American Cancer Society :: News and Features - Category: Cancer & Oncology Tags: Caregiving Coping with Cancer Source Type: news