Co‑Survivor Tips
Practical guidance for caregivers supporting someone with LMS — communication, advocacy, insurance, and self‑care.
Understanding Co-Survivors
The vital role of those who support cancer patients
What Makes a Co-Survivor?
Co-Survivors can fall into 2 categories:
Those Who Act Out of Pity and Sorrow
This leads to sympathy which can result in ignoring their own needs, putting themselves at risk for Compassion Fatigue.
Those Who Act Out of Compassion
These co-survivors recognize the importance of caring for themselves as well as caring for others. They are more driven by empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another. Although most of us experience sympathy for others in need, when combined with empathy it will ensure that both the survivor and the co-survivors needs are met.
Caregivers as Partners in Advocacy: Standing Strong Together
Key ways caregivers can strengthen communication, care coordination, and survivorship
- Be the Second Set of Eyes & Ears – take notes, track details, ask follow‑up questions.
- Encourage Open Communication – help the patient feel heard.
- Navigate Insurance & Logistics – paperwork, authorizations, appeals.
- Support Survivorship Planning – encourage wellness strategies for both patient & caregiver.
- Emotional Anchor – offer reassurance in stressful moments.
- Protect Your Own Well‑Being – seek respite, counseling, or peer support.
- Team Advocacy – approach the journey as a united front.
Essential Tips for Co-Survivors
Practical guidance to support your caregiving journey
Make Time for Yourself
Take time off, join a support group, talk with a counselor, and be nice to yourself.
Find Meaning During Cancer Journey
Look at life in a new way, find purpose and value in your experience.
Educate Yourself
Learn about Compassion Fatigue and seek support when needed.
Set Emotional Boundaries
Establish healthy limits to protect your emotional wellbeing.
Find Outside Hobbies
Maintain activities that bring you joy and fulfillment outside of caregiving.
Keep a Gratitude Journal
Document positive moments and things you're thankful for each day.
Learn Resilience
Develop skills to bounce back from difficult experiences.
Accept Imperfection
Know we all make mistakes – no one is perfect.
Express Your Feelings
Cry or express your feelings and find help with managing family conflicts that may occur.
Focus on What Matters
Focus on the things that are worth your time – let small stuff go.
Acknowledge Your Efforts
Remind yourself that you are doing your best.
Spend Time Alone
Take time to think about your own feelings and needs.
Ask for Support
Request help with tasks – you do not always have to be the expert.
Include Family Members
Allow teens/children to help out – it's good for them to feel they are contributing.
"How well people manage their lives marked by illness depends not on the nature of the illness, but on the strength of their conviction that life is worth living no matter what complications are imposed on it."
Additional Resources
Expert guidance for co-survivors facing challenges
ASCO – Cancer.Net Article to Support Caregivers
If you have self-doubt when caring for a loved one with cancer, you're not alone. This article provides valuable insights and practical advice for managing the emotional challenges of caregiving.
Read Full ArticleRelated Co-Survivor Resources
Caregiver Resource Guide
Comprehensive guide from the American Cancer Society with practical advice for caregivers.
View GuideSupport Groups
Connect with other co-survivors to share experiences and coping strategies.
Find Groups