UPDATE - Issue 40 - Spring 2010
Support the supporter - helping the partner of patients
The shock of the initial prostate cancer diagnosis can be devastating, and one that many men, and also their partners, find great difficulty coming to terms with. Part of the problem stems from the reluctance of many men to share their feelings and emotions, even with their closest partner or relatives. The manner in which the bad news about the cancer diagnosis is delivered by the clinician can be critical. It is usually better if the partner is present at this crucial interview, providing the patient himself has agreed to this shared approach. From an ethical iewpoint, the patient's own view about whether or not the partner should be involved in this process should always be respected. It has sagely been stated that if bad news is broken sympathetically, the patient will never forget you, done clumsily, and he will never forgive you. Lucid and sympathetic counselling support not only of the patient, but also of his partner, can mitigate the negative impact of this most difficult time.
It is sometimes assumed that patients and their supporters may not want to know all the facts about the cancer that afflicts them. Several surveys confirm in fact that the reverse is true. The role of the partner can be critically important in maintaining the morale, self esteem and confidence of the individual affected and maintaining e closeness of the relationship. This is an extract from an article written by Roger Kirby, Kate Holmes and Peter Amoroso, the full text of which can be found on our website in the News section, or by clicking here.