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Top three tips for caregivers?

Page last modified on: October 16, 2008
Question from Melinda: Marc, what would be your Top Three ways a spouse or other caregiver can help someone get through all that breast cancer involves? And how do you help yourself deal with it?
Answer —Marc Silver, author: Well, I repeat the motto of the breast cancer husband, "Shut up and listen." I think men have a tendency of wanting to rush in and fix things, but this is really a time to take your cue from your wife. And if she's not giving directions, ask for them. And it's important not to be a martyr, to make time for yourself with your wife's permission. I interviewed Cokie Roberts, the journalist who herself had breast cancer. Friends would call her and ask what they could do to help, and she would say, "Play tennis with my husband."

On Wednesday, February 21, 2007, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Partners, Loved Ones, Caregivers: Taking Care of  You. Author Marc Silver and moderator Rosalind Kleban, L.C.S.W. answered your questions about how you can take care of your loved one and yourself during and after breast cancer treatment.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Marc SilverMarc Silver is the author of Breast Cancer Husband: How to Help Your Wife (And Yourself) Through Diagnosis, Treatment, and Beyond.

Rosalind Kleban, L.C.S.W.Rosalind Kleban, L.C.S.W. is administrative supervisor for psychosocial programs at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center's Lauder Breast Center in New York City, where she leads weekly support groups for women with early and advanced breast cancer.

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