Empowerment Unleashed: Be the Supporter Your Loved One with Cancer Needs

b-present Team | June 6, 2024

When someone you care about is facing cancer, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure about how best to support them. But guess what? You’ve got the power to make a real, positive impact! At b-present, we’re all about empowering supporters like you to step up with confidence and heart. In this blog, we will take a look at how you can be the supporter your loved one needs.

What is Empowerment?

Empowerment means we have the confidence in our abilities and feel in control of our actions and the value they have on impacting outcomes. When we feel empowered, we are more likely to take action, do hard things, and lean into challenges with courage, and with eyes wide open that we may make mistakes, but working through the imperfections is better than the feeling of taking no action at all. We are more likely to feel empowered when we stay authentic, leveraging our own strengths, and understanding when and where we might need some help.

Our motto: Be Present, Not Perfect.

Why Empowerment Matters

Empowerment gives you the tools, knowledge, and confidence to make a difference. It turns those feelings of helplessness into action, ensuring you’re equipped to handle both the practical and emotional challenges that come with supporting your loved ones with cancer.

Tools to Elevate Your Support Game

We’ve created research-based and community reviewed resources that help improve empathy and understanding, strengthen communication, and help adolescents and young adults with cancer and their social support network stay connected throughout treatment and beyond.

The Supporter Roadmap

A vital tool for anyone wondering how to stay connected and provide meaningful support after a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer.

The b-there App

Designed for busy young adults balancing life and being supportive friends. Survivors can share their status, manage activities, and request needed items. Supporters can check updates and sign up to fulfill wish list items. Staying connected has never been easier!

Education for Practical and Emotional Support

Education is key to empowerment. Here’s how you can prepare yourself to be a strong pillar of support.

Understanding Their Needs: Every cancer experience is unique, and understanding your loved one’s specific needs is crucial. Listen actively, ask questions, and be present. Sometimes, the best support is simply being there and showing you care. Other times the best support is giving them space to rest and recharge, because that is what they need.

Effective Communication: The value of strong, empathetic communication cannot be overstated.

Check out the blog below on how to embrace different communication styles.

Embracing Different Communication Styles Within Cancer Support Networks

Resource Roundup: Equip yourself with resources that can make a tangible difference. From local support groups to online forums, there’s a wealth of information out there. b-present resources are a great place to start! From helpful guides to heartfelt stories to expert advice, we cover it all.

- Explore our video library on YouTube for survivor and supporter stories, as well as tips and tricks for supporting a loved one.
- Tune into our podcast, The Support Report wth b-present, where we share real stories from young adults and how support impacted their lives.
- Our blog is packed with articles designed to empower you with knowledge and insight.

Tackling Emotional Challenges

Supporting a loved one with cancer can often feel like an emotional rollercoaster. It’s crucial to manage your own well-being while being there for your loved one.

Self-Care is Essential: Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritize your self-care to ensure you’re in the best position to offer support. This could be as simple as a daily walk, meditation, or talking to a friend.

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Building a Support Network: It’s okay to ask for support. Connect with other supporters through our community programs. Sharing experiences and advice can provide much-needed emotional relief and practical insights.

Seeking Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Therapists, counselors, and support groups can offer valuable guidance and support for both you and your loved one.

Advocacy and Making a Difference

Every action, no matter how seemingly small, holds the power to transform someone’s life. There are so many opportunities to continue to have an impact.

Raise Awareness and Get Involved
Use your voice to raise awareness about AYA cancer by sharing stories, participating in events, volunteering and using social media to spread the word.

If you are in the Southern California area, we host events such as happy hours, trivia, pickleball, and more! Follow us on social to stay in the loop.

Donate Blood or Be the Match: Many young adult cancer patients rely on blood transfusions as part of their treatment. Consider donating blood to help ensure a steady supply for those in need. Additionally, registering as a bone marrow or stem cell donor could potentially save a life.

Let’s transform support into action, one bold step at a time. With b-present by your side, you’re never alone.