What Not to Say: Supporting a Loved One with Cancer

By: Dr Shara Cohen

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

When someone you love is diagnosed with cancer, finding the right words can feel impossible. You want to help—but you’re afraid of saying the wrong thing.
This honest and practical guide is here to help you do better.

What Not to Say goes beyond clichés and awkward silence. It explores the real emotional impact of common phrases—from “stay positive” to “everything happens for a reason”—and offers compassionate alternatives that truly support.

Written by cancer survivor and patient advocate Dr Shara Cohen, and grounded in powerful stories from patients, caregivers, and survivors, this book will help you:

• Understand what not to say—and why it matters

• Find simple, supportive words that bring comfort

• Navigate silence, fear, and tough conversations with confidence

• Show up in meaningful ways—not just in the first week, but throughout the journey

Whether you're a friend, partner, colleague, or family member, What Not to Say will give you the tools to offer real support—without needing to be perfect. Just present.

Because when someone is facing cancer, it’s not about having the right answers.
It’s about being willing to stay.