New diagnosis

Q I just found out I have cancer but don’t know how to tell my family. What should I do? Mia, Hull A Part of the challenge of sharing such difficult news is managing your emotions while telling family.

It’s a good idea to talk to someone first (like one of the team at Maggie’s).

This will help you make sure you understand everything you need to share and prepare for your family’s questions and emotions.

Share as much information as you are comfortable sharing and help your family to understand the treatment plan ahead.

Your family will be shocked, but if there is an active treatment plan, they will be reassured by that.

If your situation is more complex, it’s even more important to get the help of your support team.

Depending on your family situation, our advice is to be as honest as you can be so that everyone is aware.

Also, think about what you might need from them and ask them to help in any practical way that is useful.