Family+and+supportive+friends

= Family and Supportive Friends  =

The family plays an important role supporting the patient and the medical staff (Edwards, 1998; Rapidis et. al, 1980).

They are a necessary psychological support system for the patient for many reasons.
 * They provide emotional support.
 * Often monetary/ financial stability if the patient had previously been the primary income earner.
 * They will often reassure the patient and provide a positive outlook.
 * They may provide the patient with a drive (psychological reinforcement) to overcome the cancer.
 * They may be a good outlet source for the patient (someone he/she is able to talk to about their worries)

In terms of supporting the medical team:
 * They will often provide information about the patients medical history
 * They can facilitate communication between the patient and medical team
 * They can provide the team with regular updates of the patients condition (which they may have monitored more closely than other staff)

4.7