First, I'd like to say that, although the subtitle of the book refers to cancer, almost all the information applies to helping someone who is suffering from any chronic illness that would benefit from support of friends and family.

That said, the book is full of practical information, based on the author's own experience and his discussions with others in similar situations. It is divided into short (one-page) chapters and is very easy to read. If you have a friend or family member dealing with a serious illness (and unfortunately most of us will at some point), you'll find this book very helpful in identifying the do's and don'ts of helping them.

This book is full of great tips and suggestions on ways you can be supportive and helpful to one who is struggling with cancer. The author is a survivor of cancer many times over and he shares his experiences in a way that is easy to read, touching, and often humorous. It’s a short book but it hits you in the heart, with its simple insight and wisdom. The book stayed with me for days after I finished it. I found myself thinking about the times I could have done better and how I will do things differently in the future. Though the subject is meant for support of those with cancer, there are several chapters of suggestions that can be generalized to those suffering with other chronic illnesses or grief from loss.

Though Stavros is sometimes lighthearted in sharing his experiences with cancer through short stories and anecdotes, the wisdom contained within this work cannot be understated. It truly is a resource for those struggling to figure out how to interact with sick friends and loved ones - or support the caregivers taking care of them. Unfortunately, most of us will be faced with knowing about or caring for someone with cancer - and likely sooner than later (if not already). I'm grateful for the nuggets that Paul has shared here...you will be too!

This was easy to read, fun at times and non-threatening. Paul tells it like it is. I learned how to be more comfortable with very sick people. I also discovered what I should not do. This is a book for family and friends who want to relate to that loved one dealing with a life-threatening illness.

his is such a down to earth, practical book for anyone who knows someone who is struggling with cancer. The tips are simple yet impactful; the stories are entertaining; yet meaningful. Everyone knows someone who is sick with cancer or some other illness. This book may help you be able to support them better. It’s an easy read!

A straightforward and sometimes humorous account of what's REALLY helpful, and, more importantly, what's NOT when fielding offers of assistance from people in the sick person's support system. Certainly my experience in supporting my SO for the last 5 years in his cancer journey. Thanks, Paul!

Paul Stavros offers tips and insights that are helpful for anyone unsure of how to best support people dealing with cancer or any other illness. His stories elicit compassion, care, and deep understanding about the challenges facing those with cancer and their family. My favorite tip came from Paul's mother, "You have a chance to teach your children how to deal with pain and suffering with grace and dignity." Her words landed for me as it sounds like they landed for Paul -- no matter what we are struggling with, we have an opportunity to move through it with grace and dignity. There are so many other tips I am bringing with me. I will be better able to show the love and care I long to in supporting friends and family struggling with illness, and especially cancer, because of this book. And I promise not to bring lasagna!

Paul dispenses sage wisdom to those who care for someone with cancer. Leveraging his unique experiences and speaking from the perspective of a recipient of much good will, Paul shares powerful and sometimes hilarious anecdotes about the friends, family, and neighbors who reached out while he was sick. He ranges widely to discuss themes as diverse as how to help and what to cook (spoiler alert: don't bring lasagna). Most important, Paul confronts the awkwardness that illness inspires head-on, giving practical advice on how to talk and act around someone who's sick. It's not the stilted advice of a psychiatrist or a family counselor. It's the wisdom of someone who's done the hard yards as a patient and knows a thing or two about what sick people appreciate and what they don't. If someone close to you has cancer and you're keen to engage with them, I highly recommend this book.

This is a terrific book full of interesting (some funny, some sad) stories and fantastic tips. It is a fast read and one that I'm sure I will reference from time to time.