Getting Help from Family and Friends

Who to ask

Think about the people in your life who can be there for you. Ask for help from people who:

• Have good judgment

• Can talk to medical professionals

• Are organized and think clearly

• Can be assertive, if needed

• Have proved to be trustworthy

• Are able to stay calm in stressful situations

How they can help

When you visit a healthcare provider, friends and family can:

• Drive you to and from your visit.

• Make you feel comfortable and more confident.

• Remind you what you planned to tell or ask.

• Take notes.

• Help you remember what your healthcare provider says. They can help you follow through on your healthcare plan. Examples are getting regular exercise and eating a healthier diet together.

When you are ill, friends and family can:

• Talk to your healthcare team for you.

• Help you learn about your illness.

• Help you make medical decisions.

• Help you keep track of follow-up appointments, providers' names and specialties, tests, and treatment.

• Give you emotional support.