Honestly, it can be hard to figure out exactly what they need.
How to support someone going through surgery
1.
Its a classic put your airplane mask on before your childs situation.
If you want to cook them dinner and bring it over during their recovery, thats great!
There is a significant psychological impact pre-surgery that often goes ignored.
Some surgeries are exciting, like a gender-affirming procedure or something that will fix an injury.
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Or maybe you love to cook, or know just how to make your friend laugh.
It cant be overstated how okay it is to be realistic about your unique skills.
In todays world, theres also a need to pay bills.
Fundraisers can be emotionally easier for someone else to manage.
(Think about going through surgery, and then consider putting yourself out there by asking for financial support.
An exhausting combination, to say the least.)
Find out what they need, but also offer suggestions
Most of us arent great at asking for help.
Dont just say, What can I do to help?
or Let me know if you need anything!'
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If you do, they will likely not have an answer or say nothing.
However, there isnt a hierarchy of value to these roles.
Any effort is part of an ecosystem of support.
Donating to a GoFundMe can feel impersonal, but might be what someone needs to pay for their surgery.
Remember that your presence is valuable, even if thats just a text or time spent watching a movie.
That alone is a sign your loved one is lucky to have you along for the ride.
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