The responsibility rests with patients to contact CANSA for assistance. Read more...
A Loved One has Cancer
Your blood runs cold, as you try to take in the news that your loved one has cancer.
Finding out that a loved one has cancer can be an overwhelming experience, leaving you in a state of shock. You may feel frightened, angry or saddened by the news. You may even try to deny that this could happen to your loved one.
You quickly embark on a steep learning curve about cancer, medical terminology, treatment options, and wait anxiously with your loved one for test results or treatment outcomes. There are countless decisions to be made and financial hurdles to overcome.
You may feel ill equipped to support and care for your loved one, or feel guilty because you are not coping, when they are the one facing a life threatening disease. You may feel resentful that cancer has changed your lives and burdened you both. Your loved one is also going through physical and emotional changes due to the side effects of treatment, and you may feel at a loss to deal with these changes. All of these things leave you feeling exhausted.
You need help – every bit as much as your loved one and you need not face this alone.
It is important to acknowledge your feelings and to arrange for support for yourself, if you are to help your loved one.
CANSA Tele or Virtual Counselling can be accessed via the CANSA Help Desk on 0800 22 66 22 toll free, or book online. This is a confidential, professional, cancer-related telephonic counselling service to cancer patients, caregivers and their families and parents or guardians of children living with cancer. Counselling is available in most SA languages and is free of charge.
You are welcome to join our Facebook Support Group CANSA Survivors – Champions of Hope for loved ones and patients. Here you can connect with others in a similar position and find valuable tips to help your loved one cope with treatment. Find more online resources to help your loved one…
Remember to take care of your physical and emotional needs – eat well and get enough exercise and sleep. Also make sure that you don’t neglect regular health checks and cancer screening.
Tips:
PPT: What to Say to a Colleague with Cancer
Leaflet: What to Say to a Colleague with Cancer
CANSA is committed to connecting people facing cancer with information, day-to-day help as well as emotional support they need. Our aim is to ensure that cancer Survivors and their loved ones don’t have to face cancer alone; we’re here to support them through every step of their cancer experience.*
* The responsibility rests with patients to contact CANSA for assistance. CANSA is not informed of any diagnoses / of patients being treated at medical centres. Family need to obtain permission from patients, before CANSA may contact them. Read more…
Finishing Touches Supports CANSA This October
This October, Finishing Touches is supporting CANSA for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For every online order in October, we’ll donate R5 to CANSA to fund cancer advocacy initiatives, screening, and support services for South Africans.
Read morePublished: 7 October 2026
Updated: 7 October 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, Fundraising Events & Projects, I have Cancer, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Women's Health
Carrol Boyes Partners with CANSA for Limited-Edition Pink Legacy Pen
In partnership with CANSA’s ‘Purchase with Purpose’ campaign, Carrol Boyes is introducing a limited-edition Pink Legacy Pen (ballpoint, rollerball and fountain pen formats) for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. They are distinguished by a pink body and signature sculptural ‘Woman’ motif. The Pink Pen is more than a beautiful, functional piece, it represents strength, solidarity and the importance of breast cancer awareness…. More Than a Pen. A Symbol of Strength….
Read morePublished: 6 October 2026
Updated: 6 October 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, CANSA Highlights, Fundraising Events & Projects, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Women's Health
Life on the Left Side – Living with an Ostomy Bag
This World Ostomy Day, Gary Goldie shares his experience candidly in a guide he wrote ‘Life on the Left Side – Living with an Ostomy Bag’. In 2017, a jump over a garden wall led to an ankle injury, which led to a routine check-up, which led to the discovery of an aggressive cancer nobody had any symptoms of. What followed was chemo, radiation, a surgery with a coin-flip outcome, and a permanent ostomy bag that changed the rest of his life. His guide contains helpful tips on how to navigate life as an ostomate…
Read morePublished: 6 October 2026
Updated: 6 October 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, About Cancer, Advocacy, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Help Desk, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Stories of Hope, Women's Health
A Serious Illness can feel Unlikely until it Changes Everything
Most of us plan around the life we expect to live. We plan for the home we want to own, our children’s education, career ambitions, holidays and retirement. What we are less likely to plan for is cancer, a heart attack, stroke or another serious illness. When you’re healthy, working and getting on with life, it’s easy to think: “It won’t happen to me.” And even when we do think about serious illness, another assumption can offer reassurance: “I have medical aid, so I’m covered.” But are either of those assumptions enough to build your financial future around? CANSA and Old Mutual Personal Finance have joined forces to help South Africans better understand the wider financial impact of severe illness and encourage important conversations about financial preparedness before they become urgent…
Read morePublished: 5 October 2026
Updated: 5 October 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Women's Health
CANSA and Old Mutual Personal Finance Partner to Strengthen Conversations around Severe Illness & Financial Preparedness
CANSA and Old Mutual Personal Finance have joined forces to help South Africans better understand the wider financial impact of severe illness and encourage important conversations about financial preparedness before they become urgent. During the campaign period, Old Mutual Personal Finance will donate R100 to CANSA for every qualifying new Severe Illness policy taken up, up to a total contribution of R100,000. The contribution forms part of Old Mutual Personal Finance’s broader support of CANSA and the work it does for people and communities affected by cancer…
Read morePublished: 5 October 2026
Updated: 5 October 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Women's Health
You are More than Your cancer diagnosis
CANSA is raising awareness of breast cancer, previously mostly diagnosed in women over 50yrs, now affecting more women in their 30s and late 20s. Aside from highlighting the importance of knowledge of symptoms of breast cancer and regular screening in younger women, it is important to acknowledge that younger and older women are ‘more than their diagnosis’…
Read morePublished: 1 October 2026
Updated: 1 October 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Women's Health
What Happens During a Hair Restoration Consultation with Alvi Armani?
Through a new partnership between Alvi Armani South Africa and CANSA, survivors now have access to medically guided hair restoration treatments and medications that supports both their confidence and emotional well-being. The initiative offers complimentary consultations and assessments for cancer survivors, providing safe, evidence-based treatments that help restore a sense of normalcy…
Read morePublished: 30 September 2026
Updated: 30 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
Women’s Hair Recovery After Cancer: A New Chapter
Through a new partnership between Alvi Armani South Africa and CANSA, survivors now have access to medically guided hair restoration treatments and medications that supports both their confidence and emotional well-being. The initiative offers complimentary consultations and assessments for cancer survivors, providing safe, evidence-based treatments that help restore a sense of normalcy…
Read morePublished: 28 September 2026
Updated: 30 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
CANSA Monthly Virtual Support Group – 29 September 2026 (11 00 to 13 00)
We understand how vital support is when facing or recovering from cancer. Our virtual group offers a safe and caring space to connect with others who truly understand what you’re going through. This group is open to cancer patients and those in remission, as well as their loved ones and caregivers…
Read morePublished: 27 September 2026
Updated: 30 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
CANSA TLC – Tiny Lives Cherished Festive Season Holiday Project
Help the Cancer Association of South Africa’s (CANSA) TLC department put smiles on the faces of young cancer patients and their siblings this festive season. Who will you buy a gift for?
Read morePublished: 23 September 2026
Updated: 23 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, CANSA Bedfordview Care Centre, CANSA Bloemfontein Care Centre, CANSA Cape Metro Care Centre, CANSA Durban Care Centre, CANSA East London Care Centre, CANSA George Care Centre, CANSA Gqeberha Care Centre, CANSA Kimberley Virtual Care Centre, CANSA Lowveld Care Centre, CANSA on the Move for the Youth, CANSA Paarl Care Centre, CANSA Pretoria Care Centre, CANSA Roodepoort Satellite Care Centre, CANSA Rustenburg Care Centre, CANSA Springbok Virtual Care Centre, CANSA Waterberg Virtual Care Centre, CANSA's Tough Living with Cancer (TLC) Programme, Volunteers Inspire
CANSA & Alvi Armani Partnership Offers Hair Restoration Support for Cancer Survivors
CANSA is partnering with Alvi Armani – their restorative programme helps post-cancer treatment patients regain hair, confidence, and quality of life after facing cancer… the initiative will offer CANSA-affiliated patients in recovery, access to complimentary, in-depth, and personalised consultations. Complete the form in the post to indicate your interest…
Read morePublished: 20 September 2026
Updated: 30 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Our Corporate Social Investment Partners, Women's Health
Free Webinar with StratFin – Cancer and Medical Tax Back – What You Need to Know
Register for this Stratfin webinar: 13 October 2026 – a cancer diagnosis can bring significant medical and financial challenges. Many patients and families are unaware that they may qualify for SARS medical tax relief on certain qualifying expenses – knowledge that could help ease the financial burden of cancer care…
Read morePublished: 8 September 2026
Updated: 15 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Highlights, CANSA Webinars, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
CANSA Surrounds Young Cancer Patients with Hope, Dignity and Care
September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, and CANSA continues to provide comprehensive support for young patients and families. From treatment devices, accommodation during treatment, to adolescent-friendly rooms, palliative care and community education, CANSA’s Tough Living with CANSA (TLC) programme helps children, young people and families cope with a cancer diagnosis and treatment…
Read morePublished: 31 August 2026
Updated: 22 September 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Advocacy, CANSA's Tough Living with Cancer (TLC) Programme, Media Releases & News, Types of cancer
CANSA Highlights Human Rights and Cancer in the Workplace
As South Africa marks Workers’ Day, CANSA is encouraging employers, managers, HR teams, employees, and caregivers to recognise that cancer in the workplace is not only a health issue, but also a matter of fairness and practical support.
Read morePublished: 2 July 2026
Updated: 3 July 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Advocacy, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA Highlights, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Women's Health, Work and Cancer
Join us on the October Health App for a Discussion around ‘Life after Cancer’ (2 June) at 5PM
5PM 2 June 2026 – in honour of International Cancer Survivors Day, Olivia Curlewis shares her deeply personal journey of surviving Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, a rare cancer of the sinus cavity. After extensive facial surgery and the emotional, physical, and mental challenges that followed, Olivia brings a powerful perspective on courage, identity, healing, and life beyond diagnosis. As a registered nurse and someone celebrating 30 years with CANSA, Olivia will also share what her journey has taught her about hope, support, education, and walking alongside others affected by cancer. Marcelle D’Allende, transformation & change manager and life coach, also shares her experience as a lung cancer Survivor…
Read morePublished: 2 June 2026
Updated: 18 June 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
CANSA Marks Cancer Survivors’ Month by Focusing on Life Beyond Treatment
June is recognised globally as International Cancer Survivors Month which provides the opportunity to recognise cancer survivors living in South Africa and to highlight the often-overlooked emotional, physical, financial and practical realities that can continue long after diagnosis and treatment. For many people, the end of active treatment is not the end of the impact that cancer has had on their lives. Survivors may continue to live with fatigue, anxiety, fear of recurrence, body image changes, relationship strain, financial pressure, workplace challenges, long-term side effects and the emotional impact of having faced a life-threatening illness. This is why survivor support must be seen as an essential part of cancer care…
Read morePublished: 25 May 2026
Updated: 25 May 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Advocacy, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, CANSA - Who We Are, CANSA Bedfordview Care Centre, CANSA Bloemfontein Care Centre, CANSA Cape Metro Care Centre, CANSA Durban Care Centre, CANSA East London Care Centre, CANSA George Care Centre, CANSA Gqeberha Care Centre, CANSA Highlights, CANSA Kimberley Virtual Care Centre, CANSA Limpopo: Polokwane Care Centre, CANSA Lowveld Care Centre, CANSA on the Move for the Youth, CANSA Paarl Care Centre, CANSA Pretoria Care Centre, CANSA Roodepoort Satellite Care Centre, CANSA Rustenburg Care Centre, CANSA Springbok Virtual Care Centre, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Women's Health, Work and Cancer
CANSA Information and Support Desks
Trained CANSA volunteers provide information to cancer patients at government hospitals through the CANSA Information and Support Desks service, once per week, to help them cope with the physical and emotional demands of cancer treatment. Depending on their needs patients, caregivers and loved ones are referred to CANSA’s free support groups, and Tele / Virtual […]
Read morePublished: 22 April 2026
Updated: 22 June 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, About Cancer, Advocacy, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
Preserve Your Legacy for Your Loved Ones with Memoire Books Writing Journals
Purchase a beautifully illustrated journal from Memoire Books, with helpful prompts and preserve your legacy for your loved ones, while supporting the work that CANSA does. A donation per item sold will be given to CANSA. The journals aim to preserve stories, strengthen family bonds, and offer healing through writing…
Read morePublished: 23 March 2026
Updated: 22 April 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Beyond Diagnosis & Treatment, Caregiving and Cancer, Fundraising Events & Projects, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Our Cause Related Marketing Partners, Stories of Hope, Women's Health
World Cancer Day 2026: United by Unique – Every Cancer Experience Matters
This World Cancer Day, the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) is calling on South Africans to stand ‘United by Unique’, recognising that every cancer experience is deeply personal – and that people-centred care can save lives, restore dignity and give hope. Now in its second year, Union for International Cancer Control (UICC),’s global United by Unique campaign highlights the importance of seeing the person behind the diagnosis and responding to their individual needs, circumstances and lived experiences….
Read morePublished: 28 January 2026
Updated: 9 April 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, CANSA Bedfordview Care Centre, CANSA Bloemfontein Care Centre, CANSA Cape Metro Care Centre, CANSA Durban Care Centre, CANSA East London Care Centre, CANSA George Care Centre, CANSA Gqeberha Care Centre, CANSA Kimberley Virtual Care Centre, CANSA Lowveld Care Centre, CANSA on the Move for the Youth, CANSA Paarl Care Centre, CANSA Pretoria Care Centre, CANSA Roodepoort Satellite Care Centre, CANSA Rustenburg Care Centre, CANSA Springbok Virtual Care Centre, CANSA Upington Virtual Care Centre, CANSA Waterberg Virtual Care Centre, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Media Releases & News, Men's Health, Women's Health, World Cancer Day - 4 Feb
CANSA and DKMS Africa Partner to Expand Donor Recruitment and Support in South Africa
Through a new partnership, CANSA and DKMS Africa, an international non-profit organisation dedicated to the fight against blood cancer and blood disorders, will strengthen the recruitment of diverse stem cell donors in South Africa, while ensuring improved support and matching for blood cancer and blood disorder patients who need life-saving transplants. DKMS Africa is dedicated to registering and supporting donors to match patients in need. The CANSA TLC programme places equal importance on patient and donor welfare. Donors travelling for transplant procedures will stay for free at CANSA TLC facilities…
Read morePublished: 16 September 2025
Updated: 3 July 2026
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Advocacy, CANSA's Tough Living with Cancer (TLC) Programme, Media Releases & News, Types of cancer
Cancer – Overcoming the Unimaginable
Marcelle D’Allende, stage 4 lung cancer patient, believes that cancer Survivors are responsible for their own well-being, whether it is physical, mental or spiritual. Which “take-away” points resonate with you? Her ‘Take Away Points’ include: A strong, resilient mind will help you overcome difficulties (mental health counts) Cancer does not define who you are – […]
Read morePublished: 21 August 2025
Updated: 3 September 2025
Categories: A Loved One has Cancer, Caregiving and Cancer, I have Cancer, Men's Health, Women's Health
