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Sheraz Azhar: The Overlooked Caregiver in Cancer

Sheraz Azhar/Researchgate

Mar 5, 2025, 05:16

Sheraz Azhar: The Overlooked Caregiver in Cancer

Sheraz Azhar, Co-Founder at ONCS Care, shared on LinkedIn:

“The Toll on a Sister: The Overlooked Caregiver in Cancer

In every cancer journey, there is a patient—but there are also caregivers, the silent warriors who stand beside them, carrying an invisible burden.

I recently witnessed this firsthand with a young woman whose sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. She sat beside her sister with a brave face, offering unwavering support. But in the quiet moments, after she left the room, she finally exhaled—exhausted, anxious, and emotionally drained.

The Unseen Struggles of Caregivers

Sisters, daughters, partners, friends—many caregivers put their own well-being on hold, feeling guilty for expressing their own pain because they are not “the patient.” But the reality is: cancer affects the entire family.

To caregivers:

Your role is invaluable.
Your exhaustion is real.
Your well-being matters, too.

Seeking support—whether through counseling, peer groups, or simply taking a moment for yourself – is not selfish.It is necessary.

To my fellowoncologists and healthcare professionals:

Let’s not just ask our patients how they are doing.
Let’s ask their caregivers, too.
A simple “How are you holding up?” can open the door to support they may not even realize they need.

A sincere appreciation toDr. Olubukola Ayodele, whose guidance and mentorship in caring for breast cancerpatients has been invaluable. Working alongside her has reinforced the importance of a holistic approach—not just treating the disease, but also supporting the entire network of caregivers and loved ones around the patient.

Let’s continue the conversation. How can we better support caregivers in the cancer journey?”

Breast Cancer cancer Caregiver in Cancer fight against cancer Global awareness Global fight against cancer Olubukola Ayodele OncoDaily Oncology Sheraz Azhar

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