What do you write on a card to someone who has cancer? Examples and inspiration
What do you write on a card to someone who has cancer? Examples and inspiration
What do you write on a card to someone who has cancer? You want to let them know you are thinking of them, but at such a moment, finding the right words can be difficult.
You don't have to write something big or special. A simple, personal message is often enough. For example, write that you are thinking of someone, wish them strength or love, share a beautiful memory, or let them know you are there.
I, Pien, co-founder of Stamps, was diagnosed with cancer multiple times myself. I remember well what cards and personal words from others did to me. Sometimes it was just a few lines, but the very realization that someone is thinking of you can mean so much.
Therefore, you will find various sample texts below: for someone who has just been diagnosed with cancer, during treatment or chemotherapy, and for someone who is terminally ill.
Did you know that at Kaartje2go we have our own successful collection of unique cards?https://www.kaartje2go.nl/samen/stamps
What do you write on a card for someone with cancer?
You don't have to downplay cancer or know exactly what to say. A card can be simple and sincere. For example:
Dear [name],
Such devastating news. I am thinking of you and wish you lots of strength and love for the time ahead. Know that I am here for you.
Lots of love,
[name]
Or even shorter:
Dear [name],
I don't really know what to say, except that I'm thinking of you. Lots of love to you.
What do you write on a card after a cancer diagnosis?
Immediately after a diagnosis, a lot can come at someone. At such a moment, you don't have to offer solutions or advice. You can simply let them know that you sympathize.
For example:
Dear [name],
It is so terrible that you received this news. I am thinking of you and wish you all the strength for what lies ahead. And if I can do anything for you, big or small, let me know.
Love
[name]
What do you write to someone receiving chemotherapy or another treatment?
Tijdens een behandeling kun je iemand laten weten dat je nog steeds aan hem of haar denkt. Zeker als een behandeltraject langer duurt, kan een kaartje tussendoor fijn zijn.
For example:
Dear [name],
Just a quick card to let you know I'm thinking of you. I hope you have a somewhat good day today. Lots of strength for the treatment and a big hug from me.
Or:
Dear [name],
No big words, just letting you know: I'm thinking of you. Even now, weeks after your diagnosis. Lots of love.
What to write on a card to someone who is incurably ill?
When someone has been told that a cure is no longer possible, words may be even harder to find. You don't have to diminish the grief. An honest message letting them know you are thinking of them or are there for them is enough.
Example 1
Dear [name]
What incredibly sad news. We honestly don't really know what to say. We are thinking of you often and wish you and everyone around you much love and strength for the time ahead.
Lots of love,
Example 2
Dear [name]
We heard the sad news today. We can imagine that you are facing an overwhelming amount of pressure. We are thinking of you and wish you much strength and love for the time ahead.
Lots of love,
Example 3
Dear [name]
What an intensely sad message. I hope you are surrounded by your loved ones in the coming time. If there is anything we can do for you, we are happy to be there.
Lots of love,
What not to write to someone with cancer?
Most people want to say something positive. However, well-intentioned phrases such as “you have to stay positive,” “you are so strong,” or “you are going to beat this” can sometimes come across differently than intended.
You don't have to cheer someone up or encourage them. You can also simply acknowledge that it is difficult.
Don't you really know what to write? Then you can even say that literally:
I don't really know what to say, but I want to let you know that I'm thinking of you.
That might be enough.
Extra: a lucky charm with your card
Sometimes, in addition to words, you want to give something small. At Stamps, we have lucky charms that you can include with a card, for example. A small gesture that someone can hang on a keyring or bag as a reminder: someone is thinking of me.
Order here your lucky charm pack
Staying in touch when someone has cancer
A card can mean a lot. But when an illness lasts longer, another question often arises: how do you stay involved in what someone is going through in a nice way?
For the person who is ill, it can be tiring to keep telling how they are doing over and over again. And for family and friends, it is sometimes difficult to know when to call or ask how they are doing.
That is what Stamps was made for. With Stamps, you describe what you are experiencing in one safe, private place. You decide who can read along. Family and friends can respond and stay involved, without you having to tell the same story over and over again.
Writing helps to organize your thoughts. Sharing makes it easier for the people around you to empathize and offer support.
Stamps is free to use and contains no advertisements.
Frequently asked questions
What do you write on a card when someone has just been diagnosed with cancer?
A short, supportive message without pressure, such as:
"I am thinking of you and am here for you"
What do you write for incurable cancer?
Words of presence and support, without wanting to offer solutions.
What should you avoid?
Overly assertive or positive statements such as “everything will be fine”.
How do you make it personal?
By mentioning a memory or characteristic of someone.