The role of the support person
A diagnosis of cancer places patients and their families in one of the most emotionally difficult situations that humankind can experience.
Cancer is an alienating disease; it awakens fears within family members and friends, leaving many no longer knowing what to do or say. As a result, the patient feels more uncomfortable and more alienated, The situation becomes emotionally traumatic for some friends and family, and they may gradually distance themselves from the patient. This leads to the patient feeling not only alienated, but isolated as well. The main fears they experience are: