The Gift of Presence: How Just Showing Up Can Make a Difference in a Cancer Patient’s Journey

Sometimes, the greatest gift isn’t what you bring—it’s simply being there.

When a person is diagnosed with cancer, his/her life changes in an instant. Navigating medical appointments, treatments and emotional challenges can leave a person feeling as though life is progressing while they are standing still. Nevertheless, there is one thing that can help to change the situation: the presence of others.

At Cancer Can't, we have seen how acts of presence – in any form – can serve as a lifeline for patients. You don’t have to be a doctor, a caregiver, or a counselor to make a difference. Sometimes, all it takes is to be there.

Why Presence is Better Than Words

Cancer affects people’s lives, and there is no way to describe or understand how one feels when faced with such a disease. Many people hesitate to reach out because they’re afraid of saying the wrong thing or not knowing how to help. However, it is not always words that are required; sometimes, presence is enough.

Accompanying someone to a medical appointment, sitting beside them during a long day or simply checking in can remind them they’re not alone in the fight.

How to Define Small Gestures That Make a Big Difference

Often the little things mean the most to cancer patients, including:

✔ A ride to treatment
It can be a big help to someone who has cancer to simply give that person a ride. They won’t have to worry about how they will get there—they can just worry about getting better.

✔A quiet visit
Recovery can be long and daunting. Companionship during the journey can be extremely comforting for a cancer patient.

✔ A text or call that says “I’m here”
A short message checking can remind someone that they’re not alone in the fight.

✔ Bringing a favorite snack, book, or music
Little things can help make a hospital visit or a treatment day more bearable.

Presence is not about solving issues. It’s about giving people a place to turn to during the most challenging moments.

Addressing Cancer's Loneliness: Solutions and Support

Cancer can be a lonely disease. Some patients report that their relationships with friends change – not because people don’t want to help, but because they don’t know how to help.

Here is how we can change the narrative and make sure no one has to face cancer alone:

• Commit to consistency
  A weekly check in, a ride to an appointment, or just being there on the tough days tells someone you’re a constant in the fight.
• Offer specific support
  Instead of saying ‘I’ll text you later’, tell them, “I’ll pick you up from your next appointment” or “I’ll bring dinner on Wednesday”.
• Respect their emotional space
  Some days, patients may want to talk about their illness. On other days, they may not want to talk at all; they may just want company. It’s important to be flexible and meet them where they are.

How Volunteers Become the Source of Comfort for a Patient

For those who have limited support systems, volunteers can provide comfort and a sense of connection.

Many volunteer drivers at Cancer Can’t have shared that they really enjoy their time volunteering and spending time with patients.

Sue Witte, a volunteer driver shared, “I know that I am helping the patients, and they are so grateful. However, often after volunteering I feel like I am taking away more from the experience than I ever gave that person. I’m so grateful I can make a difference for them.”

This is why volunteers can make such an impact. You don’t have to know someone personally to be the person who shows up when they need it most.

How You Can Help Someone in Need Today

You don’t have to have the right words or all the solutions to make a difference. You just have to be willing to be there.

Here’s how you can show up today:

✔ If you know someone with cancer, reach out

A simple text, a call, or an invitation to coffee can help them feel like they are not alone.

✔ Consider volunteering with Cancer Can't

It means so much to give a ride, to offer comfort, or just to accompany someone. You will be changing lives — including yours.


✔ Encourage others to show up too

Sometimes, people just need a nudge to remember that their presence is valuable.

The Importance of Merely Being There

While financial assistance, meals, and medical care provide essential support, the most profound gift you can offer someone facing cancer is your presence. Showing someone they are seen, valued and never alone is a gift that amplifies all other forms of support.

Are you ready to show up? Whether it’s as a friend, a family member, or a volunteer—your presence is more important than you can imagine.