alt Hacker NewsMeaningful.
Our friend group went through the support-mode version of this this year and much of the advice rings true.
To add, a giant shared document that the group of friends had access to in order to take notes. Findings, theories, doctor statements will be shared when the patient isn't in a great place to be taking notes.
And for anyone reading this that might have someone facing cancer in their lives, go make a nuisance of yourself being present - feel empowered to spend a bit more time than you might initially think is necessary/helpful with them. Facing this stuff alone is when it is at its hardest.
> go make a nuisance of yourself being present
I was hospitalised (not cancer) and completely zoinked out of my mind due to sleep deprivation, constant blood loss and being in pain 24/7. People did visit, but I guess they just thought... I have things under control? I wish they had talked to the doctors and asked more questions. In the end I came out of it fine, but I probably would have gotten a better result with someone advocating for me.
Please go and be a nuisance. As someone with a clear head you will likely be able to understand the topic better, from a more neutral standpoint, and potentially push for the best possible treatment.