Bone Marrow Transplant Support Group

Just be as supportive as you can, do anything to make them feel like the most important person in the world and that you'll be there for them NO MATTER what! They need to know they are not alone, that they can survive this! That you will be there every step of the way.

bring a lot of things to do, dvd's, board games, coloring books. chemo is immensly boring, and if their not sleeping, there is nothing to do. plus, it adds a distraction.

Sharing a good laugh even during the hardest of times can be some of the best medicine. I was amazed about how much better I could feel by just laughing. Hospital hours are very long and boring hours.

i totally agree with these comments.

having a friend who is going through this with you is priceless. the best a family member can do is offer a listening ear, and try be strong.

although family and friends can support and listen, no one knows quite how you feel, like someone who is going through the same thing with you. i have found this to be an experience i will never forget.

I am going to come at this from a different perspective ~ as an oncology nurse. Try to keep anyone that is sick far away. Chemo can weaken the immune system so much that a cold can be very detrimental. Wash your hands all of the time! Keep alcohol based hand sanitizer around & use lysol to disinfect surfaces. Chemo can change one's taste buds...encourage them to eat whatever sounds good. Keep in mind if the white count is too low (neutropenia) they should not eat undercooked foods or fresh fruit or veggies that are uncooked. Don't take any meds without first talking to your oncologist! Any kind of question or concern don't be afraid to talk to the MD. It is better to ask then to find out that you should have later.
Ok, as a cancer patient...be there & help them...they may not always ask for it, but most likely need it!