Family and friends may be the ones who can help with some of the day to day care routines you will need during treatments, convalescing or as your illness progresses.

But be realistic because not everybody will be able to offer help because of work or other commitments or they just may not be suitable as carers.

It’s important to organise support for your carers as well as yourself because they will face increased stress, disrupted sleep, concern and worry for you while they are taking care of your day to day needs.

There are allowances and benefits available for carers from Centrelink www.centrelink.gov.au and many charities and organisations can help with respite care for you and your carers during your illness.