Hello Charleneparlene, 

A warm welcome to Cancer Chat. I am so sorry to hear about your friend's diagnosis of stage 4 ovarian cancer. Poor her, being given this news on Christmas day of all days. It's great that she is keeping positive but I can understand why she is feeling terrified at the moment. I am sure she very much appreciates having an amazing friend like you who is just there for her whatever the circumstances.

It's difficult to find the right words to support a loved one with stage 4 cancer. But I would say just be your natural self with her, keep chatting about the things you used to enjoy talking about before her diagnosis whilst at the same time showing her that you are there for her if she needs anything whether it is on an emotional or practical level. There is a great section on our website dedicated to family, friends and caregivers which contains some great tips to help you support a loved one with cancer. You can read more about this on this page. 

I hope this helps a little and that you will hear from others here who have found themselves in a similar position, wanting to be there for their friend and wanting to make sure they are finding the right words during this difficult time to support them in the best possible way. 

Best wishes, 

Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator