By Chance Browning Chief Operations Officer, Caregiver Action Network ⚠️ SPOILER ALERT: This post discusses key plot points from Heated Rivalry. If you haven’t watched yet and prefer to remain spoiler-free, now’s a good place to pause. Between its steamy romance, emotional depth, and bold portrayal of identity and ambition, Heated Rivalry has become [...]

References What does it mean to help from a distance? If you are caring for someone with cancer who lives more than an hour away, that’s “caring from afar” or helping from a distance. There are a variety of mobile and web apps that ease the burden of family caregivers, and their use [...]

References Long-distance caregiving presents unique challenges. If you find yourself in the long-distance caregiving role, here is a summary of things to keep in mind. Know what you need to know as a long-distance caregiver Experienced caregivers recommend that you learn as much as you can about your family member or friend's illness, medicines, [...]

References Why is it important to talk with the patient's healthcare providers? Please note: The patient will need to give permission for his or her healthcare providers to speak with you. If you stay in touch with healthcare providers treating the cancer, you’ll likely have a better understanding of the disease and treatment. [...]

References Why is it hard to talk with family and friends about caregiving? Many caregivers find it difficult to speak with the person who is sick. You and your loved one are in this together, but your experiences and roles are very different. For example, the cancer patient may be frustrated that he [...]

References What is a Care Plan? It is important to have a written plan of care for your loved one. A Care Plan lays out what needs to be done to manage the health and well-being of the cancer patient. Unlike the doctor’s “plan of care,” the Care Plan addresses non-medical issues. A [...]

References What are family meetings? Family meetings can help you make sure that everyone understands the situation. Caring for someone with cancer is not a one-person job. You need others to pitch in. Even if they don’t give direct care, the time you spend caregiving may affect them. Meetings are a way to [...]

References What are some transportation issues related to cancer care? During treatment the person with cancer may need to go to the hospital or clinic often over the course of many weeks. Because treatment can cause weakness, pain, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting, he or she may not be able to drive him or [...]

References What are the medication issues related to cancer? People with cancer often take many medications both for their cancer as well as for other chronic health problems. Following the doctor’s orders can be hard when some need to be taken with food, some without, some in the morning, some at bedtime, some [...]

References What can I do to make the patient’s home safe? Patients with cancer often have health-related problems that make safety important. Side effects from treatment such as weakness, pain, and numbness in legs and feet all can contribute to falls. There is an increased tendency for cancer patients to fall. Most homes [...]