When my young Aunt (34) was diagnosed with metastatic bresat cancer we arranged for a cleaner to come once a week while she was receiving treatment and for a few weeks afterwards (about 6 months in total I think). We have a large family so it was only a small contribution each week for each person, it also meant that family members who were to far away or physically unbale to help could contribute. I did approach her before we organised anything to see how she and my unlce felt about this and they were very, very grateful. My aunt continued to work most of the time while she was having chemotherapy and for her it meant she could come home to a clean house and relax and she and my uncle and cousins also got to spend more time together as a family.

Almost everyone helped with meals, I often made bulk loads of lasagne which they could freeze then defrost as necessary. We also helped drive her to appointments and sit with her during chemo as she enjoyed having the company and sometimes school pick ups after chemo when she really needed to rest.

And I guess when ever you are over visiting her for a coffee, offer to put on a load of washing, do any dishes in the sink etc things that you can do while still chatting?

Sending lots of positive thoughts your friends way