BREAST CANCER
20+ UNCOMPLICATED WAYS TO COMFORT YOUR BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR FRIEND
DO YOU REALLY KNOW HOW TO HELP HER? WITHOUT MAKING IT ALL ABOUT YOU?
Should I call? Visit? OMG! How could this happen? Will she be okay? What does this mean? How can I help? What do I do….
You could do the basic stuff (basic in this case doesn’t mean bad)
If the person who was recently diagnosed is someone who is not very close to you – a co-worker, a church friend, the lady at the dry cleaners who always starches your shirts just right – then flowers, or candy or maybe a nice bottle of wine (with a gentle sympathy/get well card) is sufficient. I mean, this is someone you know, someone you’re acquainted with but not necessarily someone that you have major memories with.
If the person diagnosed can’t tell a story about you that makes you blush, laugh or cringe in terror at the memory of it… keep the gift and the acknowledgment pretty simple and basic. It’s about respecting the privacy of the patient. Don’t overstep your boundaries.
A diagnosis of breast cancer is an extremely sensitive and private matter. The new patient-survivor may not have really digested what has just happened to her life. The last thing she needs is to have to try to explain something so personal to someone she really only knows in a surface way. Respect her privacy and keep your gift acknowledgment simple but appropriately empathetic.
If you’re closer than an acquaintance or you feel led to do something that really helps… you have to get more personal with your effort
The help she REALLY needs (and may not ask for)
This list is in no particular order.
- Drive her to/from daily radiation treatments or chemo treatments. Chemotherapy and radiation treatments are physically draining. A ride from a trusted friend eases your mind.
- Cook meals and deliver them to your friend. (for an additional boost of greatness, be sure to include disposable plates and eating utensils, cups and drinks)
- Take the kids for a day or overnight so the patient and spouse can rest
- Go over to her house once a week to clean and tidy up (if you have to disguise it as visiting with nervous hands… that’s okay)
- Call her regularly – not too often because she’s going to be really tired and in need of rest. But regular calls with good friends means that she hasn’t been forgotten. That matters.
- Offer to sit with her during her chemotherapy infusion (they can take a few hours to complete).
- Be sure to ask her how she wants to experience her chemotherapy (does she prefer to chat endlessly about anything but cancer, laughing at terrible jokes and funny movies, being quiet and non-disruptive…ask her what works best for her and then do that).
- ALWAYS offer your help. Even when she’s being stubborn and even if she says no every time. Make the offer.
- Gift cards for food are great. Example: A $50 gift card to McDonalds or Starbucks can be used for frozen smoothies/cold drinks that help ease the discomfort of mouth sores.
- A care basket of kids crafts for the children.
- Classmates of the kids could offer to host a sleepover to give mom & dad a break and to give some normalcy for the children.
- Take your friend on a car ride. Doesn’t have to be a super detailed trip, just an opportunity to get out of the house and to spend some time with a friend. Doing nothing like friends sometimes do.
- Go to the grocery store for her. Your friend may not have enough energy to grocery shop for herself or her family. A simple task that makes a huge impact. (If you can afford to pay for the groceries too, even better)
- Invite the husband/spouse/significant other out for a day or an evening to give him a break and offer some social support.
- Be a good listener. Seriously… just listen. Sometimes we need to talk and get some things off of our chest.
- Send a card – through the mail. You remember those paper things we used to look forward to receiving and used to send often? Yes… send those. Send one. Send one every week, every month. Opening mail that isn’t something from the hospital or the insurance company… that doesn’t bring any bad news, just comforting thoughts that someone cares… such a good feeling.
- Keep the patient first, always. People with good intentions of being supportive very often make having breast cancer about their fear and their sadness, instead of focusing on the patient and her needs and fears and concerns. Keep the patient first.
- Drop off a goodie bag with pampering items. (fluffy socks, really hydrating lotion -unscented preferably, bath salts, a thick blanket, etc.)
- Make sure that your schedule is flexible because changes happen constantly.
- Go to appointments with them. Actually sit with them when they talk with the oncology team. Pay close attention and take notes.
- Be an advocate for them. Especially if you plan to be at every appointment, know to speak up for their needs and concerns.
- Remember that chemo brain is real and be forgiving of forgetfulness. Patients can often forget certain aspects of their treatment that concern them, or questions that they thought of since their last appointment. A lot of information is given at each appointment and things can be missed or forgotten.
- Always carry a travel bag with certain necessities, including a vomit bag. (A clean shirt, a scarf, maybe a travel blanket, etc.) Anything is possible after chemo, be prepared.
- Encourage the patient to take time for their relationship. Cancer takes over your life, carve out time for dates (dates at home can be really nice if she’s too weak or tired to go out)
- Take pictures of your friend. She may not like it… but get pictures of her journey. I didn’t take a lot of pictures while I was in treatment but in hindsight, I really wish I had. I treasure the few pictures I do have from that time in my life.
- Use technology to stay connected. Facetime, Google hangouts, Skype, twitter, even text messages. Whatever you can use to stay connected to your friend, do that. There may be times during her treatment that she can’t have visitors, but she may be able to get on a google hangout and talk for a few moments.
- Money, gift cards, surprise bill payments – monetary assistance will likely be extremely helpful. Unless the survivor is independently wealthy or financially well-fixed, the cost of cancer will become overbearing. If you can afford to do so (and there’s no shame if you cannot), a financial gift will likely help a lot.
At the same time… there are a few things that you should NOT do
- Don’t question the patient’s decisions for treatment. It is hard enough to make the decisions you need to make about your treatment. She wants to save her life, probably more than you… don’t diminish the choices she’s made.
- Never say “maybe you should have”. Unless you are an oncologist, she’s probably not going to appreciate your second guessing of the hardest decisions she’s ever had to make.
- Don’t allow the patient to feel like giving up. Keep her encouraged. But… do so with transparency and honesty. Do not be overly perky or chipper (unless that’s your natural state) and make it seem as though this isn’t a big deal. It is. But still encourage her to keep going.
- Don’t be afraid to talk about cancer. She probably wants to discuss it. She’s also probably scared to discuss it with you because she doesn’t want to overwhelm you. Talk about the disease, it helps.
- NO stories about someone you knew with breast cancer who died. I promise you… this conversation does not do what you want it to do. It only freaks her out more. Save it.
- Don’t be negative around your friend. There is a fine line between being honest but upbeat and being unnaturally perky/optimistic. Positive thoughts and conversations help a lot.
Things that survivors can (and should) do
- Survivors should reach out to other survivors (when they feel strong enough to do so). Let new survivors know that they are not alone. Cancer can feel very isolating. A kind talk with someone who understands what “this” is all about, helps immensely.
- While in treatment pamper yourself, eat right and rest as much as possible.
- Don’t act like everything is okay and nothing is happening. It’s not good for you to delude yourself. And it’s not good for the people who love and care for you either.
- If you feel down or angry or negative… it is okay.for the brighter side. You’re human. Get mad. This is something to be angry about.
- Find someone to talk to – a counselor, a therapist, the social worker at the hospital, a good friend, your pastor, your parent, someone trustworthy and who cares about your well-being.
- If you like social media, find a group of survivors to join. Facebook has many breast cancer groups. You can search twitter and instagram #breastcancer hashtags to find like minded people.
- Definitely consider joining a support group. Being able to discuss what you’re going through, what your concerns are and to ask the difficult questions with people who know is invaluable. Ask your oncologist or the social worker at your cancer center about support groups.
In today’s digital age, technology is always evolving, offering novel solutions to a variety of industries, including healthcare. Text-to-speech (TTS) AI is an emerging technology that is having a big influence. This technology turns written information into spoken speech, hence improving accessibility and communication across different disciplines. When it comes to breast health, clear communication is essential for education, awareness, and support. Using TTS AI, particularly free versions, can greatly enhance how breast health information is distributed and absorbed. In this blog article, we’ll look at the advantages of employing text-to-speech AI-free solutions to improve breast health communication.
Understanding text-to-speech AI
Text-to-Speech AI is a type of artificial intelligence that reads digital text out loud. This technology generates human-like speech with powerful algorithms and natural language processing. TTS AI solutions may be utilized on a variety of platforms, including computers, smartphones, and smart speakers, making them extremely adaptable and accessible.
There are numerous text-to-speech AI free tools available online that provide basic functions at no cost. These technologies can be game changers for people and organizations trying to improve their communication strategies without making large financial investments.
Benefits of Text-to-Speech AI in Breast Health Communication
1. Increased Accessibility
One of the most notable benefits of employing text-to-speech AI-free solutions for breast health communication is increased accessibility. Many people, particularly those with visual impairments, reading issues, or cognitive disabilities, may struggle to access written text. TTS AI can bridge this gap by turning text to speech, allowing everyone, regardless of ability, to access and understand breast health information.
For example, a visually impaired woman can utilize a TTS AI tool to listen to an article about the necessity of regular breast self-examination. This accessibility can help more people take control of their breast health.
2. Improved learning and retention
Listening to material can be more effective than reading, particularly for complex or comprehensive content. TTS AI can assist consumers in understanding and remembering breast health information by offering an audio-learning alternative. Hearing the content might make it more engaging and memorable.
Consider a complete guide to recognizing breast cancer symptoms. Listening to this tutorial through a TTS AI tool can help people digest the information more efficiently, potentially leading to earlier discovery and better results.
3. Convenience and Flexibility
Text-to-speech AI-free technologies provide simplicity and flexibility when consuming breast health information. Users can listen to information while multitasking, such as driving, exercising, or performing domestic tasks. This flexibility may increase the possibility that people will engage with breast health information frequently.
For example, a busy professional may not have time to read a lengthy article about breast cancer prevention. They can, however, listen to the same content via a TTS AI tool during their journey, making it easier to stay informed.
4. Personalisation & User Engagement
TTS AI can be customized to meet individual preferences, increasing user engagement. Users can select multiple voices, speaking speeds, and specific sections of text to listen to. This personalization can enhance the experience and adjust it to the demands of each individual.
Consider a breast health website that has TTS AI capabilities, allowing visitors to choose their favorite voice and listening pace. This personalized experience can increase the attraction and accessibility of the content, motivating visitors to learn more.
Using Text-to-Speech AI for Breast Health Communication
1. Breast Health Websites and Blogs
Breast health websites and blogs are excellent resources for education and awareness. Integrating AI-free text-to-speech technologies into these systems can dramatically improve their usability and accessibility. By offering the option to listen to articles, instructions, and blog entries, these websites may reach a larger audience.
TTS AI tools can be embedded in websites, allowing users to listen to content by clicking a button. This function is especially useful for elderly citizens, people with disabilities, and non-native English speakers who may find it simpler to interpret spoken language.
2. Educational videos and webinars
Educational videos and webinars are effective tools for communicating about breast health. Incorporating TTS AI into these formats can increase their inclusivity. For example, adding TTS-generated voiceovers to video content can make the information more accessible to people who are deaf or hard of hearing by providing another way to absorb it. Organizations can also develop audio versions of their video material, allowing viewers to access information in several formats based on their preferences.
3. Social media and campaigns
Social media channels are vital for raising awareness and connecting with the community. Text-to-speech AI-free solutions can help improve the accessibility of social media information. For example, breast health promotions can include audio descriptions of photos and videos to make the content more inclusive.
Social media posts with TTS functionality can reach a wider audience, ensuring that important breast health information is available to all users, regardless of ability.
4. Patient Support and Counselling
TTS AI can also help with patient assistance and counseling. TTS AI solutions can help healthcare practitioners develop audio versions of educational materials, instructions, and patient support services. This might be especially helpful for those who prefer to listen to information or have difficulty reading.
A breast cancer support group, for example, might provide audio materials developed with TTS AI to members as an alternate means of accessing information and assistance.
Conclusion
Leveraging text-to-speech AI-free tools for breast health communication offers numerous benefits, including improved accessibility, enhanced learning and retention, convenience, and personalization. By integrating TTS AI into various platforms and formats, organizations and individuals can ensure that breast health information reaches a wider audience and is accessible to everyone.
As technology continues to advance, the potential for TTS AI in healthcare communication will only grow. Embracing these tools can lead to more inclusive and effective breast health education, ultimately empowering individuals to take charge of their health and well-being.
I want to offer a little advice on how to give a good gift to someone diagnosed with breast cancer. These are a few simple rules that I’ve come up with during my time dealing with breast cancer… feel free to use as you see fit and as applies to your situation.
You learn that someone you love (or like a lot) has been diagnosed with breast cancer. You are distraught and want to help, but you have no idea what this person likes or needs. What do you do?
Simple answer: call (or email) and ask. It is preferable if you can reach out to someone close to that person, especially if the diagnosis is new and you are afraid of upsetting them.
You are not very close to this person (or you’re shy and don’t want to bother them with a phone call) but you want them to know that you care and that you are supporting them. What do you do?
Simple answer: send a card or a handwritten note expressing your feelings. The note does not have to be very long. It can simply say… “Thinking of you at this time” and that’s it. The thought that someone outside of the situation cared enough to spend a little time and thought to send a note, really is helpful.
You don’t want to look like a cheapskate and you want to give a gift that really will help their life since the diagnosis. What do you do?
Simple answer: Try to think of soothing things… gift baskets that you make yourself are very nice. Try to be mindful about where the person is in their treatment schedule. If they are in chemotherapy for example, then keep in mind that food is likely not their favorite thing so edible gifts may not be the best gifts. While flowers are a nice gift, chemotherapy makes a patient’s immune system very weak and flowers (as well as fresh fruit) can have germs on them that will sicken the patient. Tea (ginger or peppermint) and a nice mug is a good gift.
If it has a pink ribbon on it and/or your purchase of the gift will also be a donation to a breast cancer charity… its a great idea, right?
Simple answer: NO! Just because it has a pink ribbon doesn’t mean that it will matter at all to the person that you want to give it to. Some patients are very disturbed by the image of the pink ribbon. Many companies use the pink ribbon image and the promise of charitable donations merely as marketing ploys… keep in mind what your gift will mean to the recipient.
Your money is limited but your time is not. What do you do?
Simple answer: Call and offer your time. A visit is a beautiful gift that doesn’t cost anything beyond your transportation expense. Offer to cook (or bring food) for them. Or offer to accompany the patient to an appointment or hang out with them during chemotherapy. Breast cancer can be very isolating and it is also very draining on the patient and their caregivers. You can give the caregiver a break for a few hours and sit with the patient… laughter is always free and a beautiful gift that will not go unnoticed. You can offer to cook or clean or maybe babysit the kids.
Also Read: 20+ UNCOMPLICATED WAYS TO COMFORT YOUR BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR FRIEND
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