If someone you love was diagnosed with mesothelioma, you likely know it’s a grim prognosis. Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly form of cancer, and doctors usually don’t catch it until the later stages.
There are plenty of reasons it’s tricky for doctors to diagnose the disease early. But the result is that most people are deeply sick by the time they’re diagnosed. They need help from the people who love them, and there are many ways you can help. Here are five.
Help with daily chores and errands
Mesothelioma can make it hard for victims to take care of certain chores like yard work and household repairs. They may need help walking their dogs or getting groceries. Helping them take care of these chores makes their life easier. It also shows how much you care.
Encourage them to follow through with treatment plans
Depending on their treatment plans, victims may need help getting to the hospital for chemotherapy or radiation sessions. Or they may need to buy, pick up and take daily medication. Some treatments lead to their own forms of suffering, and victims may want help staying positive.
Pray for them, or offer other forms of spiritual support
A Gallup poll from 2016 found that nearly 9 in 10 of all Americans say they believe in God or another higher power. Victims’ beliefs will vary, but respectful shows of spiritual solidarity may encourage some and help them find peace and calm.
Manage the finances and appointments
Mesothelioma victims may find their calendars filling up with medical appointments and looking for legal aid. At the same time, they may face bills for hospital visits, follow up appointments and medications. Taking care of these bills and appointments can reduce a victim’s mental burden.
Be there, and spend time with them
Researchers are constantly looking for the next mesothelioma breakthrough, but there’s currently no miracle cure. Victims know their diagnoses are serious. Whether you spend your time eating together, playing games, talking or simply watching a show, your companionship may shine light into a world that’s far too often cloudy and dark.