Hi everyone,

I am on here as I need feedback on how to provide help and support to a friend whose young child is undergoing chemo and is in isolation at home.

We aren't close friends but upon hearing the news I am heartbroken and want to provide welcomed support and help in whatever capacity I can. Our children are friends and we have had a few playdates in the past. I recognise this is very nuanced and I am very self conscious about what may be appropriate and what may be unwelcomed. I haven't asked any questions when I see them and therefore do not know the type of cancer and specifics. I let them share only what they want to share. I have experience myself with trauma in my youth and know that while some came to our aid with the best altruistic motives, some also came just to be close to tragedy (if that makes sense) and for myself that made me what to keep something as visceral and raw as my trauma closed off from public view. Keeping this in mind I don't want to add anything more to their plate and I don't want them to feel like they need to thank me or give me credit. Basically I want to help alleviate as much as I can and not impose or have them feel indebt in any way, so hence my request for feedback as to what I can do and what would be actually welcomed/helpful for them.

I lost my mother to cancer, but it went so quick I didn't even have an opportunity to even process/register cancer as it was in a matter of days so I do not have any insight on how to best help someone on fighting cancer journey.

I offered to cook/clean/run errands but of course they said thank you for the offer and nothing came of it, which I get. Should I insist? Should I just make a dish and drop it off? My child and I have been making pictures and care packages for their child as they are stuck at home. I thought about maybe having window playdates but I don't know if that would be a good idea for their child who is unwell recovering from chemo. Please let me know what we can do to help this family out and what may bring a smile to their child's face. I am completely devastated on what a horrible journey they are currently on and I have to do something. And lastly....screw cancer.

So those who have experienced cancer to loved ones or yourself, what would you suggest? My thoughts are all with you <3