Partner relations

Cancer affects every relationship in one’s life. A spouse or partner might be one of the people most affected by a diagnosis. For them, it means big changes not only for your life but also for life together as a couple. As long as you’re going through it together, you’re growing and making progress.

Communication is key

Let cancer be one of those obstacles that you confront as a team. This is a time that calls for some of the most important collaboration a couple has ever done. Try to understand in what ways your spouse feels most loved and supported. Ask, if necessary. Then make efforts to be responsive.

Role reversal

Due to physical challenges, each person’s responsibilities may be altered. Have open communication about what needs to be done and who can do it. There are tasks that you might want to handle. However, you should never do something that might be detrimental to your health just because you’ve always taken care of those duties. This is where spouses must handle the things they didn’t before.

Plan together who will take care of certain duties and ask family and friends to assist as needed:

• Cooking • Finances

• Driving • Household chores

• Grocery shopping • Parenting duties

• Pet care • Communication with friends and family

Going solo

Getting used to attending some of life’s events without your loved one for a while could be extremely difficult, especially if you’ve been together for many years. It’s okay to recognize this hardship. Know that your loved one wishes they could go with you as much as you wish they could. Although it may be uncomfortable, try to remain active in these ways for a sense of normalcy. If you dislike being alone, reach out to a friend or family member to keep you company during these activities.