< Back to Main Blog Posted: Feb 2026

 

Supporting Families Through Incurable Cancer:

The Ruth Strauss Foundation

 

When a parent receives an incurable cancer diagnosis, it turns life upside down. Navigating conversations about cancer and preparing for the future can feel overwhelming. The Ruth Strauss Foundation exists to ensure that no family faces this journey alone, providing essential emotional support, practical guidance, and a compassionate community.

Our Family Support Service provides practical guidance, information, and reassurance to help parents find the words to talk with their children about an incurable cancer diagnosis and share updates as things change. We support families across the UK, and all our services and resources are free.

If someone you care about is going through this it is normal to feel powerless and not sure how to help. There is no ‘fix’ - we can’t make it go away. But even a small thoughtful gesture can make a huge difference.

If you’re looking for practical ways you can support someone, here are ideas shared by parents who have been through this:

  • Offer to help with school drop-offs and pick-ups whenever you can. The same goes for sports and other after school activities

  • Drop off small meals they can freeze, send them a COOK voucher or arrange a delivery – check if there are any allergies first!

  • Offer to take the kids on fun days out, especially during the school holidays. Remember to invite teens and young people, even if they say no, they really do want to feel included

  • Offer to sit with them during chemo sessions – having someone there can provide a distraction and help pass the time

  • Drive them to and from hospital appointments. Hospital parking can be hard to find and expensive so this can be really appreciated

  • If you don’t live close by, setting up a regular letterbox gift or flower delivery to brighten their day

  • Send ‘I’m thinking of you – no need to reply’ messages regularly to show you care

Parents often tell us they had lots of support right after diagnosis, but this naturally faded as people get back into daily routines. What makes a real difference is you showing up for them consistently over time.

 

Top tips:

  • Setting a reminder on your phone to send a check in message every few weeks can be helpful, especially when life gets busy!

  • Avoid saying ‘let me know if I can help’. This can be overwhelming. Instead, offer something specific you’re able to do

 

Considering Reaching Out?

If you or someone you know is facing an incurable cancer diagnosis and feels uncertain about seeking support, know that reaching out can provide the guidance and reassurance they need.

Many parents fear discussing incurable cancer with their children, but our experienced team is here to help make these conversations easier. You can learn more about our support here.

< Back to Main Blog Posted: Feb 2026