Prayers and a Listener Are Priceless Support For Mesothelioma Victims

• Joseph Belluck
• Faces of Mesothelioma, Uncategorized

When someone you care for is diagnosed with mesothelioma, you might wonder what you can do to help.  The first answer is, of course, PRAY and ask others to pray as well.  Never, ever underestimate the power of prayer.  Our family and our story is proof of that.  You might feel as though there is nothing else you can do, but the truth is that you can.

The family that is going through a mesothelioma diagnosis and treatment is scared, tired, and exhausted in every capacity.  Any help that you can offer is important.  If you know that the person with the diagnosis usually does a certain task, ask if you could take that job over for a while.  For example, Dad always spends a lot of time cutting grass, so family members took care of that for him.  If you always see someone at the grocery store, ask if they will give you their list and pick up the items for them.

One thing that was extremely helpful was people helping to take care of my two grandmothers who my parents looked after.  In this case, if you are a family member, or are close to the family, offer to help take on some, or more of, the responsibility in that regard.

Take a healthy meal over to the family.  Trust me, they are too tired to cook and might forget to eat all together.  Nutrition is so important for any cancer patient, and helping them eat, and eat right, is a great help.

Lastly, a shoulder to cry on and a listening ear are priceless.  Spending time with the people impacted by a mesothelioma diagnosis is so meaningful and kind.  Let them know that you are praying for them, that you support them, and that you are there for them whatever they may need at any time.  The visits we received throughout our journey were so precious to us.  Knowing that you are not going through it alone is a priceless thing.

Keep in mind that any kind of help you can give or offer is appreciated whether those involved are able to express it or not.  Remember that they are going through a very difficult time.  When offering your help, try hard not to overwhelm them, as they are already feeling devastated, so be sensitive to their situation.  Friends and family members are an important factor in helping someone recovering from mesothelioma, so you are a cherished member of the team!