20 ways to feel closer to loved ones during cancer treatment

Often, cancer can put a strain on your relationships. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, family member or friend of a patient, it's emotionally tough for everyone. But those relationships can be what help you through your cancer journey the most.

So, what can you do to stay close with your loved ones and maintain your relationship while dealing with cancer?

We asked our Facebook community what they do to stay connected with their loved ones during treatment. Here's what they had to say.

1. Start a blog. This is one way to let others feel included in your cancer journey, while keeping you from having to share the same details and feelings over and over again. 
2. Use social media, like Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to keep in touch and share updates.
3. Video chat using a webcam. 
4. Chat on the phone.
5. Send a text message.
6. Have a date night. Or girl's night. Or family game night. Whatever. The most important thing is that you dedicate a night -- or day -- to the two of you.
7. Celebrate the milestones, whether it's a last day of treatment, or the day before a surgery.
8. Laugh together. Find the humor in your cancer journey -- or better yet, in life outside of cancer.
9. Pray.
10. Give a care package. Include their favorite things or things you think they could use in the hospital: books, games, a blanket, favorite snacks, music they enjoy listening to. Whatever you choose will bring a smile to your loved one's face.
11. Talk openly. Don't hold back. Let your loved one know about what you're going through and experiencing. It will help him or her understand and bring you two closer together.
12. Listen. Cancer can be a lonely experience. Sometimes it helps to just lend an ear and let your loved one share his or her feelings and struggles.
13. Forgive.
14. Cook meals.
15. Drive together.
16. Spend an afternoon at a museum.
17. Go to dinner at your loved one's favorite restaurant.
18. Make some popcorn and host a movie night in.
19. Sit with your loved one during your treatment. 
20. Just be there.

What's helped you stay connected to your loved ones during your cancer journey? Tell us on our Facebook page.