Support Line: 0300 373 8500
It can be a huge shock when someone you know is diagnosed with WM, and you might be unsure about what you can do to help.
There is no ‘right’ way to support someone, and everyone’s needs will be different, depending on whether they need treatment, who they live with and their general health. However, here are some general tips on how to provide practical support:
Some people find it difficult to concentrate or take in all the information when they meet with their healthcare team. They might find it useful to have a family member or close friend with them at appointments, where you can take notes for them and prompt to ask questions that they may have forgotten.
WM can cause a whole variety of symptoms that mean someone might struggle to do the things they are used to doing, like vacuuming, gardening or doing the grocery shopping. Offering to help with these where you can, can help them to manage their symptoms and lead a better quality of life.
People with WM have weaker immune systems, which means that they are at risk of getting seriously ill from common infections like Covid, the flu or shingles. You can support your loved one by keeping your distance when you are ill, to protect their health, minding good hygiene (like hand washing) and keeping on top of your vaccinations.
Offering to drive your loved one to appointments or social engagements can be helpful, especially if they rely on public transport (which can carry a risk of infection) or find driving fatiguing.
Especially if your friend or family member is going through treatment, where they might need to go into hospital regularly or have overnight stays, being on hand to pick up childcare or looking after pets can take a great deal off of their mind.
If you’re still struggling, you can find excellent resources on Macmillan or you can call the WMUK Support Line to speak to a haematology nurse.
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