Cancer Plus Ones

THE BASICS FOR PLUS ONES

Hey you! Partners! Family! Friends!

You’re a key part of your loved one’s cancer kicking team, and we need to make sure you, the Cancer “Plus Ones”, are taking care of yourselves too. Here are some tips on how you can help your loved one, and help yourself:

  1. IT’S OKAY TO STRUGGLE You’re allowed to struggle, mentally and physically, as a caregiver. Embrace being vulnerable and ask for help if you need it. Practice self-care consistently and don’t feel guilty about taking some time for yourself. Schedule time to reflect on your journey with your loved one, how you are doing and what you need. Burn-out is real and it can make this journey way more difficult.
  2. YOU ARE NOT ALONE Whether it is family members, friends or other caregivers, embrace having a support system for you and the person you’re caring for.
  3. COMMUNICATE AND SET BOUNDARIES Create a game-plan with your loved one to determine what information is shared and what is kept private. Communicate regularly to ensure you are on the same page (there are important decisions that are made during a cancer journey!) Being a caregiver sometimes just means agreeing that this situation sucks and being a listening ear for your loved one.
  4. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF PSYCHOSOCIAL ONCOLOGY The mental health resources available for testicular cancer patients and their caregivers through psychosocial oncology are provided at no cost and are available at any stage of your journey.
  5. STAY ORGANIZED Have a dedicated place for all of the paperwork that you collect (there’s a lot!) and keep any receipts you gather together. Making a habit of writing appointments on a specific calendar that is checked daily limits forgotten commitments and ensures everyone is on the same page.
  6. KNOW YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM Build relationships with your loved one’s medical team. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; they’re there to help you through!
  7. ASK FOR HELP There are several resources available to you and your loved one that can make the journey less overwhelming. Asking your doctor is always a great place to start! A list of external resources can be found at the end of this guidebook.

QUESTIONS? DOWNLOAD OUR GUIDEBOOK

Need to talk to someone who has been through it?

Email us at Support@oneball.ca.