1. Offer your help instead of asking if they need it.

Many women might find it hard to ask for help but you can make it easier by offering to do things for them. Instead of asking “what can I do for you?” say for example “I can do your grocery shopping for you” Helpful acts can often ease the anxiety of finding the right words of support when facing a loved one’s cancer diagnosis.

2. Keep in touch and listen.

Keep in contact by sending them messages or making regular phone calls to catch up.Cancer patients often have many visitors when they are first diagnosed, but as the treatment continues they can feel like people have forgotten about them. Make sure you check on them throughout their treatment and offer your support by listening to them regularly.

3. Accompany them to appointments.

Some treatments are hard on the body making driving difficult, so getting to doctors’ appointments can be hard for patients. Offer yourself to drive them to their consultations or if you can’t personally take them, offer to send them an Uber, Lyft, or taxi cab.

4. Support and listen to her partner.

Even though most of the support during breast cancer diagnosis might be focused on the patient, her partner might also need to be listened to and supported. This person may be going through a difficult time so you can help them by letting them know they are appreciated and by listening to their concerns.

5. Help with her finances.

During treatment personal costs can often increase: for example gas bills to assist to the hospital, hospital bills, childcare and other things. If the household budget is already tight, this can add to the family’s stress. More often than not women with breast cancer have to step back from paid work as they may feel unwell, tired or have to travel for treatment. If appropriate, ask your friend how you can help them financially. By assisting in this way, you can help relieve some of the pressure and anxiety during this time.