Your Advice For Others: Building A Strong Support System

In the face of blood cancer, building a strong support system can make a world of difference. This compilation features advice shared by members of our community in a recent forum, "Advice for Building a Support System," offering insights on maintaining a positive mindset, asking for help, and leaning on faith.

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or further along in your journey, these responses highlight the importance of connection, honesty, and finding strength in others.

"Never give up. Keep a positive mindset. It’s okay to have bad days, but don’t reside in sadness. Life is what you make of it. Live every day while you can." – CommunityMember4b8041

"Don’t whine. People know you feel lousy and don’t know what to say. Be yourself. Make them laugh. Make them feel comfortable being around you, and they will want to come back for more." – Dede M

"Stay positive and surround yourself with a team who supports you!" – Sharlencas

"The journey we travel is a very hard one. The things we see, hear, and endure are too much sometimes. I tend to live with humor in everything. It's the only way I get through. Keep in contact with those who are on your side; delete the negative ones." – LESLIEN

"Take it one day at a time and always put God first. Always remember that this is not the end. Remember, joy comes in the morning. Live your life to the fullest. You will have good days and bad days, but always keep joy in your heart and love." – ChrisLewis

"Try to keep positive and stay close to your loved ones, as they will help keep you going. Keep your faith also. Lean on God, he has got you."  – tag67

"Always pray, stay positive, and remember you got this you're not alone and you're loved." – CommunityMemberf6badb

"Pray to God every day and thank him for every day you have. Make sure your family knows how you are doing so they can be there for you when you need them the most, and let your close friends know – they will be there for you too." – Momma2cancer

"Find people who will listen to you, go to appointments if needed, and are willing to learn about your particular type of blood cancer. Surround yourself with people who care about you and are committed to your well-being." – Eskie mom

"Don't be afraid to ask for help and explain your cancer and the side effects of treatment. Friends and family didn't think of me as having cancer (multiple myeloma), as all they kept saying was, 'Wow, you look great.' They didn't think I needed help." – donnadeemac

"Be honest and ask for help." – Marriemb

"Have your family or friends take turns taking you to your treatments each week. That really helps me, having my husband holding my hand through each treatment." – heather591

"Find a specialist for your type of blood cancer." – SaraN

"Do your research about your type of blood cancer to familiarize yourself, family and friends...they as well can become more knowledgeable on your behalf and to hopefully have a better understanding!" – QueenBaby

"Educate yourself and others, and follow your doctor's lead. Your doctor sacrifices and loves you and wants you to live." – CommunityMember8670e8

"Be honest about how you feel." – CommunityMember4dc9d1

"My best advice is simply to be honest. Honest with friends and family, honest about your condition, honest with how you feel, honest with your emotions, and – maybe most importantly – be honest with yourself." – CommunityMemberdf0976

"You can find strength in sharing your thoughts and feelings with others who understand what you're going through. Peer support groups can provide a safe place to share experience with you." – Larouy

"I was not afraid to let my family and friends know I had leukemia. Because of this, I receive so many more prayers, best wishes, and support from everyone. When I’m with friends having fun, they will tell me it’s time for me to take a break." – Dvrdan58

"Find out all the information you can about support groups in your neighborhood." – CommunityMember982995

"Join Facebook groups and a local support group. Tell your family so they can help you. Be sure your best friend(s) know too. If you have a rare blood cancer, like I do, give them a little information about it so they can join you in your fight." – JEWELS

"I would say find a support group. It really helps talking to others who are going through the same thing. It's like running a race. The feeling that comes over you is so remarkable at that moment. You know that you can win this fight against cancer." – Thie