My sister (aged 75) has just been diagnosed. With covid rules in place I can't even hug her. What do I say / how can I support her? Feeling devastated and helpless.
A very warm welcome to the online community. I'm so sorry to hear that your sister is going through this, but please be assured that breast cancer is very treatable and outcomes are good.
All of us here are well aware that cancer affects our family as well as us, so do remember to be kind to yourself too - you need hugs along the way as well.
I'm sure it must be extra hard to not be able to hug her, but those times will return and perhaps you can give congratulatory hugs once it's over.
What to say - there is no right or wrong here - we all have little irritations about the things people say, but this is your sister and you know her well. Be yourself. My diagnosis was several years ago but I always appreciated the people who said "I don't know what to say" because the truth was, I didn't either!
You can support her by being there and gauging what she needs - some of us like to talk non-stop about cancer, some of us prefer to not talk about it. She might want you to listen, she might want to be distracted. Remember she's still your sister and the usual things you do and say are still OK.
Macmillan services, including the support line are available to anyone affected by cancer - so that includes you and any other family or friends. You are more than welcome here in this group and we are happy to support you - we are all very friendly - but there is also a Friends and Family group here on the forum if you want to take a look in there.
Please remember to look after yourself too, and wishing your sister well
