• Don't avoid me. Be the friend, the loved one you have always been. Touch me. Hug me. Laugh with me. Cry with me. Listen to me when I need to talk.
  
  
• I need to stay connected with family and friends. Don't be afraid to visit with me but call first to let me know. Bring a positive attitude but let me be sad for a bit if I need to.
  
  
• Offer to take me out somewhere for a pleasure trip or to lunch but realize that I may have limitations.
  
  
• Bring over my favorite foods but bring in disposable dishes so I don't have to worry about returning them.
  
  
• Volunteer to do my shopping for me and my family, call and get a list of errands that need to be done.
  
  
• Come and get my children and/or spouse and take them somewhere to take their minds off of my illness, maybe even keep the kids one night.
  
  
• I may need help with transportation to and from the doctor's office and/or I may need someone to sit with me while I get treatment. Can you help?
  
  
• Offer to provide transportation for my children to various events and activities that they need to attend.
  
  
• Can you help with some chores? Water my flowers, help with laundry, wash dishes, and/or clean house.
  
  
• Help me celebrate life by decorating my hospital room or home by bringing me flowers, other natural treasures or even decorating for the holidays.
  
  
• Be creative! Bring me a book, taped music, a poster or picture for my walls or table, and share jokes. Goodies to share with my family and friends. Magazines or treats to take to the doctor's office while I'm getting treatment.
  
  
• Share funny stories of you and your family or other humorous situations with me. Laughter is good medicine.
  
  
• Help me feel good about myself. Keep me posted about what's going on with other friends and/or co-workers as well as in the world and around me. Talk to me about the future. Hope is so important to me.
  
  
• Send a note or card to let me know you care.
  
  
• Pray for me and share your faith with me.
  
  
• Always remember to include me in any decision making. Don't rob me of the chance to maintain control of my life.
  
  
• Tell me how you would like to help and when I agree, please do so.