Things to Remember…
WHEN YOUR PARTNER IS THE PATIENT
Find ways to say “thanks.” During a crisis, it may be difficult to notice the small things your partner is doing to get through each day. When you can, try to look for these things and thank your partner for doing them. Showing a little gratitude can make both of you feel better. Make dates. In the process of just getting through the daily grind, it’s easy to forget how important it is to make time for each other. Set time aside on a regular basis, even if it just means sharing a meal together or watching a movie. Find ways to be intimate. Sex might not feel like a priority right now, but it’s important to consider the emotional and physical value of remaining intimate with your partner. Redefine what intimacy means to you. Talk about it with your partner. Make space for each other, as a couple.
Some relationships get stronger during a cancer treatment, while others are weakened. During this time, it is almost certain that you will feel more stress in the relationship than usual. After a cancer diagnosis, couples often feel stressed about: • Knowing how to best support each other • Making decisions • Changing roles • Figuring out how to communicate — especially about difficult topics • Intimacy issues • Caring for children • Dealing with new emotions • Financial burdens Become a team when it comes to decision making. You and your partner may need to be a team now more than ever. Discuss which decisions should be made as a couple and which decisions each of you should make alone. How can you help each other?
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