How To Show Up For Someone With Cancer

InnovationHealthcareHow To Show Up For Someone With CancerByAdaira Landry, MD MEd,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Physician who writes about the rising rates of cancer in young adults.Follow AuthorApr 29, 2026, 11:23am EDTApr 29, 2026, 11:28am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Oncology patients are forced to face challenging news, medical symptoms, and significant lifestyle changesgettyThe social toll of a cancer diagnosis is well-documented. More than half of patients report increased isolation following their diagnosis, with the burden falling hardest on those who live alone, people of color, and lower-income earners. While household and family bonds may strengthen, friendships and workplace relationships tend to suffer, especially as physical symptoms or a fear of burdening loved ones deepen the divide. The hunger for connection is real as the majority of cancer patients seek community familiar with supporting their cancer journey. 89% of patients say they wish the people in their lives had better education on how to offer support, specifically guidance on what to say, how to listen, and how to show up in practical ways.As an emergency medicine physician I frequently care for patients with cancer who are very open about their interpersonal journey after diagnosis. It has always appeared to me that many are fighting two conditions: cancer and isolation.To understand what helpful support actually looks like, I spoke with two experts who approach the subject from very different angles. Dr. Ihuoma Njoku is a psychiatrist and medical director of psychiatric oncology at the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center in Philadelphia, where she specializes in the mental health of cancer patients. Jessica Walker is the founder and CEO of Five Dot Post, a company that creates cards specifically designed for people navigating serious healt...