Emotional Support
You're Not Alone
Caregiving can be a lonely experience. Caregivers often don't feel they should be seeking support for themselves. But the best way to care for a loved one is to care for yourself.
There are several ways to reach out to others who are in similar situations or have recently been through a similar experience. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) offers a number of helpful resources that are just click or a phone call away. For more information about any of these services listed below, call LLS's information specialists at (800) 955-4572, Monday to Friday, 9 a.m to 6 p.m., ET.
Patti Robinson Kaufmann First Connection Program
First Connection is a telephone support program that links you with a trained peer volunteer who has experienced a similar situation. Anyone with a blood-related cancer as well as caregivers is eligible to receive a call or visit. There is no charge for this program.
LLS Blood Cancer Discussion Boards
Meet your peers online and share thoughts and experiences on our Blood Cancer Discussion Boards.
Family Support Groups
LLS's Family Support Group program is open to patients, family members and caregivers. Volunteer nurses and social workers professionally lead the groups. Contact the chapter nearest you to find out about Family Support Groups in your area.
Personalize
You can personalize the LLS website by following specific cancer topics through LLS feeds, podcasts and eNewsletters.
Getting Information
Caregivers often become the primary "researchers" for disease information and support in an effort to assist the person with cancer and to help him or her better understand the disease, treatment options and side effects.
LLS offers free materials and services designed to simplify this search for information and support. Click on the areas below for disease-related information or contact LLS's information specialists.
This section is designed to address the most common issues of concern when a person is recently diagnosed.
This section includes comprehensive information on specific diseases and treatment.
The Bottom Line
Be good to yourself! Caregiving is a tough job. To continue doing your job well, you must take care of yourself. Visit CancerCare for additional caregiver information.
