Cancer caregivers are a vital part of the team who help and support their loved one diagnosed with cancer. Caregivers may be spouses, parents, extended family, friends, neighbors or co-workers. While helping someone during their time of need is a meaningful experience, in many instances, caregivers and themselves in the midst of the caregiving journey without any preparation or training, and often feel overwhelmed by the tasks required of them.
When caring for someone with cancer, it is important that the caregiver also takes care of their own emotional, mental and physical health. Despite the demands, many caregivers feel empowered by the support they are able to provide, and find that caring for their loved one is a humbling experience.
The Cancer Caregiver Action Plan was developed based on conversations with fellow caregivers who asked for a way to ‘pay it forward’ — a way to help other caregivers by providing real world perspective and insight into the caregiver journey. Throughout the care plan you’ll see their stories and words of encouragement illustrating practical advice to help make the caregiving experience a little easier.