How to support a friend if their loves ones are ill.

[PGD-GRAD]

LaneSig is spot on. Many folks in these situations feel overwhelmed with everyday work, let alone the responsibility they may have as full-time or partial caregivers. Be supportive, give kind words--but also give them TIME. By offering to do some tasks for them, it gives them a chance to breathe.

[adpiucf]

If you're local, food is awesome, as others have mentioned. I have a friend who is very sick right now and I live far away. I send a card once a week. It's something small, but his wife (a sorority sister) tells me that everytime he is hospitalized, he gathers up all of the cards everyone has sent and puts them around the hospital room to help give him strength. It also makes him really happy to get mail that is supportive and not a bill!

Just do things to let them know you care. Heck, a gift of a DVD or a plate of cookies will go a long way.