Managing other parts of life can be tough when you’re going through cancer treatment. It’s common to feel too tired or sick to keep up with household tasks, errands, and self-care. But there are many resources for people with cancer. When you know where to go for help, you can focus on healing and feeling better.
Talk to your team
Start by asking your healthcare team what local and national resources are available to you. They may have someone on staff who can help you with resources. This person may be a social worker, case manager, or navigator. They know your local resources best.
Getting groceries and meals
A meal can make all the difference in how you feel. It also can be one of the hardest things to keep up with during treatment. You might have less time for cooking or be too tired to shop. Or you may have side effects that have changed your appetite. There are ways to make things easier. Here are some options when you need a hand:
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Meals on Wheels. This national nonprofit brings meals to people who can’t cook for themselves. This includes those in cancer treatment. They also cater to specific dietary needs. Find a program in your area at www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org.
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Other local meal programs. You may have nearby nonprofit groups and churches that offer meals or food delivery for people with cancer. Talk with your healthcare team to ask what help there is near you.
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Local grocery delivery. Many grocery stores offer delivery. Call grocery stores in your area or look at their websites to see if they have delivery services. Some nonprofit groups have volunteers who shop and deliver to people with cancer. Ask your healthcare team, or local Council on Aging (COA). You can find your local COA at www.ncoa.org.
Keeping a clean home
A tidy house can put your mind at rest. But it's not easy to stay on top of tasks when you’re in treatment. Luckily, there’s housekeeping help for all budgets, so you can keep your space feeling like home. Here’s where to look:
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Cleaning for a Reason. This nonprofit can connect you with volunteers who offer free cleaning to people with cancer. Contact them at www.cleaningforareason.org.
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American Cancer Society (ACS). You can search for cleaning and housekeeping support in your local area by zip code at www.cancer.org.
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Paid cleaning services. Some companies offer discounts to people with cancer. Search online for services near you and ask about special rates.
Finding a ride
During cancer treatment, you may not be able to drive or take public transport if you’re not feeling well or at high risk for infection. There are helpful resources to get you to and from your appointments safely. Try these programs:
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Local ride services. Some communities have ride services for people in cancer treatment. Check with your hospital, local Council on Aging, or local transportation department for more information.
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Road to Recovery. This program from the ACS provides free rides in some areas. Go to www.cancer.org/roadtorecovery to check for services in your area.
Taking care of your pets
Your furry or feathered friends may need more time or money than you can give when you have cancer. These options for pet care can help:
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Local volunteers. Nearby volunteer groups or animal shelters such as ASPCA may offer free or low-cost pet care help, such as dog walking or cat sitting. You can find your local ASPCA at www.aspca.org.
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CancerCare. This nonprofit has a Pet Assistance & Wellness (PAW) Program to help with pet care during cancer. Contact them at www.cancercare.org or 800-813-4673.
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Pet Fund. This nonprofit group gives financial aid for trips to the vet. Contact them at www.thepetfund.com.
Managing bills and money
Cancer treatment can be costly. You don’t have to face this on your own. There are organizations ready to help. If you need help with money, debt management, and more, turn here:
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Cancer Financial Assistance Coalition. This group offers grants and help with medical bills and living expenses. Contact them at www.cancerfac.org.
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National Foundation for Credit Counseling. This nonprofit group provides support with managing debt. Contact them at www.nfcc.org.
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American Cancer Society. They have resources to help you understand and navigate your insurance options. Find out more at www.cancer.org.
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Local programs. Many towns have financial programs for people diagnosed with cancer. You can find these through your local hospital or cancer center.
Self-care is healthcare
It’s normal to need support while having cancer treatment. By getting help with your daily needs, you make time and space to focus on healing. If you have questions about available resources, reach out to your healthcare team. They’re here to help you during this important journey.
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