It may be very hard to cope and stay positive if you live alone. Even if you value your independence, being ill can make you feel very lonely and isolated.

People who are close to you will want to help in any way they can. Some may find it difficult to talk about the cancer, but would be happy to do your shopping, post your letters for you, or do something in the house you can’t manage. Other people will be able to keep you company sometimes, listen to you and share your worries and fears.

If you have to go into hospital and leave your house, pets or your garden, you can ask friends to help. If this is difficult, you could perhaps tell one friend what needs to be done, and ask them to organise things for you. You may find it hard to ask favours of people, but you will probably find that your friends are only too happy to be given specific things they can do for you.

Many organisations offer advice, information and support for people living on their own. Our cancer support service can give more information tailored to your needs.

Our pet care section provides information on getting help with pet care when you are ill.

Community, district and palliative care or symptom control nurses (sometimes called Macmillan nurses) can also provide support and information about help at home.