Hello and thanks for your post,

I am sorry to hear about your relative and her recent treatment.

I can understand how difficult it must be knowing how best to support her.

Everyone copes with a cancer diagnosis and treatment in a different way. Just letting her know that you are around if she wants to talk and being sensitive if she doesn't.

It is a tough treatment that she has been through and sometimes it may take a while to regain her strength. Encourage her to be kind to herself and not to expect too much from her body too soon. If you are around it may be nice to try and go out for short walks particularly as the days are now lighter for longer. 

She may feel very tired after her treatment which may explain why she is feeling so down. Offering practical help such as shopping, cooking and some house work may help.

We have tips on how to help support someone with cancer which you may find helpful to look at here

If you don't live nearby sending her cards or regular texts(if she has a mobile phone) will make her know that you are thinking of her.

If she does continue to feel down do encourage her to talk to her GP so they are aware as to how she is feeling. I am sure she will probably be having a follow up appointment after her surgery so do encourage her to let her team know if she is still feeling down.

Macmillan offer free online counselling for patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. This may not be something that she is ready for at this stage but when she is feeling a bit stronger this maybe something that she may want to consider. Have a look here.

You may find helpful tips from other members of the forum. You have posted in ask the nurses but if you post on other threads you may get more replies.

I do hope that some of these tips may help.

You are both more then welcome to give one of the nurses a ring on the helpline. Our number is 0808 800 4040 and we are here Monday to Friday 9-5.

All the Best to you both,

Catherine