We’re dedicated to giving you the very best and latest information, tips, and advice, with a focus on the patient\/survivor and caregivers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What to say or write to someone with news of a serious medical diagnosis.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you get news that someone you care about has been diagnosed with cancer, or that their cancer has returned, or spread to other parts of the body, it can be devastating. We want to help them, show them that we care about them, and that we love them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But how to do that in a card?  What can we write in a card for someone with cancer that will help them with their struggle?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a complicated question that changes depending on our relationship with them, as well as the stage they\u2019re in. There are a few things to consider when you want to write to someone who has cancer, so along with examples of messages you can write in your cards. We\u2019ll also consider this from different points of view depending on where your loved one is in terms of their cancer: Diagnosis, Treatment, Remission, End of Life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NEW DIAGNOSIS<\/strong>
In order to help people who have just been diagnosed with cancer, it\u2019s important to think about the whole process that they\u2019ll be going through. You want to be careful not to overstate or over promise things you can\u2019t control, because that can come across as inauthentic. With that in mind, it\u2019s often a good idea to keep your message general.
So when they first get the news they have been diagnosed with cancer, let them know you\u2019re there for them. This is a life-altering and shocking event. Knowing they have friends and support can mean everything to them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some examples of what to write in a card if someone you care about has just been diagnosed with cancer:
\u2022 I\u2019m here for you.
\u2022 I\u2019m thinking of you.
\u2022 You\u2019re on my mind and in my heart.
\u2022 Don\u2019t hesitate to call on me.
\u2022 I want to help.
\u2022 You are not alone.
\u2022 I\u2019m here with you every step of the way.
\u2022 You can call on me anytime, for anything.
\u2022 You are still the same amazing person you\u2019ve always been.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

IN TREATMENT<\/strong>
As they\u2019re going through treatment, reminding them that you\u2019re part of their support system is also very helpful. Comment on their strength; remind them of a time in their life when they showed great courage; tell them why you admire them and how they\u2019ve overcome other challenges. Find ways to inspire them; to help them see the bigger picture as they go through the everyday\/every-moment struggle that is treatment. Each step along the way can feel like a big one, so it\u2019s nice to know they have a helping hand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some examples of what to write in a card if someone is going through cancer treatment:
\u2022 Every day you are getting closer.
\u2022 Your strength inspires me.
\u2022 I\u2019m rooting for you.
\u2022 So proud of you.
\u2022 You are a light to others.
\u2022 You are a rock star.
\u2022 You are my hero.
\u2022 I know you are stronger than anything.
\u2022 This diagnosis does not know what it\u2019s up against.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

REMISSION<\/strong>
Remission can come in different shapes and sizes. For some it\u2019s, \u201cYes, we\u2019ve beaten this!\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If that\u2019s the case, here are some messages you can write:
\u2022 Greatest news ever.
\u2022 So happy for you and your family.
\u2022 I\u2019m crying, I\u2019m so happy. 
\u2022 You worked so hard. And I am so happy.
\u2022 My favorite day ever.
\u2022 You will inspire so many.
\u2022 Cancer is no match for you.
\u2022 You are more amazing than ever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

MIGHT BE IN REMISSION<\/strong>
For others, being in remission can be more along the lines of \u201cWe think we\u2019ve beaten this,\u201d so we have to be a little more careful with our statements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example:
\u2022 You\u2019ve worked so hard for this moment.
\u2022 Take a deep breath and enjoy this moment.
\u2022 I\u2019m so happy for you.
\u2022 You are an inspiration.
\u2022 Nothing compares to you.
\u2022 You continually amaze and inspire me.

And for some people, being in remission can be more along the \u201cthis is temporary\u201d lines. Be aware of the circumstances and address them accordingly. At this point, keeping things in the now is important because you can\u2019t know what\u2019s truly going to happen in the future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are messages you can write:
\u2022 Today is a good day.
\u2022 Here you are now: so strong, so amazing, so beautiful.
\u2022 Now (Today) is the day I\u2019ve been praying for.
\u2022 I\u2019m so glad for you. For today. For this amazing news.
\u2022 Your news just made my day!
\u2022 Your strength brought you here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

END OF LIFE<\/strong>
This is the most difficult time, but your words can still have a positive and uplifting impact. It\u2019s important to keep things feeling in the now: be cheerful and bring sunshine to their day. Remember they can be very tired so less might be more. In some small personal way let them know you are thinking of them \u2014 mention the weather, something that reminded you of them, or something about the family, etc. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Consider messages like these:
\u2022 I was just thinking of you and how much you like (\u2026)
\u2022 Everyone is thinking of you.
\u2022 We are so proud of you.
\u2022 I saw the sun today and it made me think of how you light up a room.
\u2022 I saw the most beautiful flower today and it reminded me of you.
\u2022 Your beautiful smile always brings so much joy.
\u2022 You are one of my favorite people.
\u2022 I just wanted to write and say \u201chi,\u201d and that I\u2019m thinking about you and how much I admire you.

These messages are never easy to write. But they will make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling with cancer. Taking your time to let someone know you are thinking about them, that you care about them, and that you want the best for them is always worth it and always meaningful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Greg Vovos has been writing at American Greetings for ten years. In 2014 he lost his mother to acute myeloid leukemia. He was grateful for all the wishes he received when she passed and knows his mother appreciated every kind word she received during her illness.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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