Copelink Blog

As 2016 draws near, we’d like to take a moment to reflect on all we’ve accomplished in the past year. Here’s a look back at just a few of the highlights from 2015.

Of course, the truest highlights have been the exchanges between our social workers and clients, the bonds formed between members of our support groups and the words of thanks we receive from those who feel they have been helped. All of us at CancerCare look forward to continuing to provide help and hope to anyone affected by cancer, and working to ensure that no one has to face cancer alone.

Has your pet helped you or a loved one cope with a cancer diagnosis? We want to honor your furry (or scaly!) friend with our #CritterCaregivers photo contest.

To celebrate National Family Caregivers Month, we invite you to share photos of you and your pet using the hashtag #CritterCaregivers, along with stories about how your critter caregiver has helped you or your loved ones cope with cancer.

It isn’t unusual for people with cancer to find that the intense care and show of concern from friends and family begins to gradually dwindle away after their initial diagnosis. They may begin to feel their support systems slowly fading away as treatment progresses. It’s vitally important to remember that cancer treatment and recovery is often long and arduous, which is why it’s so important to provide cancer support throughout the entire duration of your loved one’s treatment.

Some people become caregivers gradually – their loved ones develop symptoms slowly, or may need several tests before the cancer is diagnosed. Others become a caregiver more suddenly. Either way, a cancer diagnosis often brings an unexpected change in one’s life. As a result, caregivers seldom have the chance to get their own lives in order prior to becoming a caregiver.

“It’s frightening to hear someone talk about cancer, and we automatically think about ourselves. But try to keep your own feelings in check and focus on the person who has been diagnosed. You don’t have to fix this situation or say something profound, just being there is huge.”

CancerCare oncology social worker Sarah Kelly, LCSW, comments on the frequently asked question of what to say to someone who has been diagnosed with cancer, and what kind of comments to avoid.

A wholesome and nourishing diet plays an essential part in your overall health. This is especially true when coping with cancer. However, it can be difficult to maintain a healthy diet while managing the side effects of chemo. Luckily, there are steps you can take which will help you remain strong and healthy throughout your chemotherapy treatment.

After Sandra Lyu’s father, Seung, passed away from pancreatic cancer, she and her family decided to set up a special fundraiser in his memory, benefiting CancerCare’s free support services. After creating a Team CancerCare fundraiser page, the Lyu family has raised nearly $10,000 for anyone affected by cancer. “We are truly grateful to everyone who has donated,“ Sandra says. "Knowing the impact our father has had on so many people and to give back in honor of him has meant so much to our family during this very difficult time.”

During our recent #CaregiverCandids contest, CancerCare asked people affected by cancer across the country to share photos honoring the caregiver in their lives. Our grand prize contest winner, Melissa, submitted an inspiring photo of her and her caregiver, husband Bud.

Melanoma is one of the fastest growing cancers worldwide. Thanks to a partnership between the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) and CancerCare, the Melanoma Helpline is available to any individual or caregiver coping with a diagnosis. Have you or someone you love been affected by melanoma? Reach out and call 1-877-MRF-6460.

CancerCare, the CDC Foundation, and Amgen are working together on a survey to better understand cancer patients' and caregivers' knowledge of one of chemotherapy’s side effects that may increase their risk of getting an infection.