Lots of people find it hard to talk to someone with cancer. It can also be hard to know how best to support them.
they might be really scared
Being told you have cancer can be really scary. Your brother or sister will be trying to understand what’s happening to them. Just like you, they might be scared or worried. They’ll have lots of feelings that they might not understand. They might also be feeling tired or sick because of the treatment. Try to understand if their mood is different or if they don’t want to talk much. It doesn’t mean they’re mad at you.
it's good to talk
Sometimes they will want to talk. It might be about cancer, the treatments or how they’re feeling. You might not understand it all, but being there to listen can help them. It will also help you understand some of what they are going through. They won’t expect you to have answers. It might be that they just want to talk about ordinary stuff like school, friends, sport or make-up. This gives them a chance to forget about their illness for a while.
it's ok to show how you feel
It can be hard for us to see someone we love upset. It can make us feel upset too. But it’s important that your brother or sister can show their feelings if they want to. And it’s OK for you to show yours. Don’t feel that you always have to be strong for them.
have fun
It’s OK to have a laugh with your brother or sister too. You probably can’t imagine what there is to laugh about. But there will be times when a laugh is what’s needed to help you both cope. It’s best not to try to make them laugh if they are obviously upset or having a serious chat with you.
it can help you bond
Some young people find that they become closer to their brother or sister because they spend more time with them than they did before. Your brother or sister might just be glad of your company. You don’t always have to be doing something. Just hanging out together can be good. There’s no right or wrong thing to do. Just go with whatever feels right for both of you.
