When someone is diagnosed with a blood cancer it will dramatically affect the lives of families and all others who have a relationship with the patient. The patient and the entire family will experience an emotional, physical and, possibly, a financial impact. Each will have to rearrange his or her daily activities to some degree, and these changes do not come easily to any of the people involved.

Family caregivers have become a vital extension of the healthcare team. Blood cancers are often treated on an outpatient basis, leaving the responsibility of the details of patient management to a caregiver.

In October 2000, The National Family Caregivers Association estimated that there were 25 million Americans taking care of a spouse, child, aging parent or other loved one. Whether you are new to caregiving or it has become a way of life, the daily struggle you face in caring for someone else's basic needs can be overwhelming. The level of help a person needs from their caregiver varies from light assistance to total care.

Caregiving often starts gradually with tasks such as driving to medical appointments, shopping for groceries, and housecleaning. Over time you may provide more care, perhaps even providing round-the-clock care. These tasks are more involved and may include feeding, bathing, supervising medications, arranging medical care, and managing financial and legal affairs.

Caregivers' need for information and support is as great as it is for the person with cancer. Many of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's patient service programs are available for both patients and caregivers. With careful planning, good self-care and a knowledge of available help, your job will be easier.

In addition to LLS's programs, visit CancerCare for additional information and support for caregivers of people with cancer.

Information is Key - Important information resources for caregivers

You Are Not Alone - We offer support information and programs for caregivers

The Basics of Caregiving - Basic suggestions to assist you in your caregiving journey

What Caregivers Need From Doctors - Those who provide care for family members with blood cancers are vital members of the healthcare team

Balancing Work and Caregiving - The responsibilities of caregiving and doing well on the job often conflict

Long Distance Caregiving - Caregiving responsibilities are often complicated by distance. Not only is it more difficult to fulfill your loved one's needs from afar, it's also more difficult to assess what those needs may be.

Caregiving and Depression - It is not unusual for caregivers to develop mild or more serious depression as a result of the constant demands they face in providing care

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