The Know ALL website uses a third-party service provided by Google that dynamically translates web content. Translations are machine generated, so may not be an exact or complete translation, and Know ALL cannot guarantee the accuracy of translated content. Know ALL and its employees will not be liable for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages (even if foreseeable) resulting from use of the Google Translate feature. For further support with Google Translate, visit Google Translate Help.
How to talk to your loved ones about your diagnosis
Sharon Cohan
September 1, 2025
Know ALL cannot guarantee the accuracy of the automatic subtitles and translations as AI is used for their creation. Please be advised to exercise caution when precise interpretation is required.
For World ALL Day 2025, Know ALL spoke with Sharon Cohan, a social worker and patient advocate, from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, New York, US. We asked about how to talk to your loved ones about your diagnosis with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
During this interview, Sharon shared practical guidance on how to approach conversations with loved ones after a cancer diagnosis, emphasizing that there is no single “right” way to share the news, and the approach should be tailored to each individual. Planning ahead can help ease these discussions; considering who to tell, how much detail to provide, and anticipating questions. Sharon discussed strategies for these conversations and offered age-specific tips for talking with children, highlighting honesty, reassurance, and clarity about what cancer is. Sharon emphasized the importance of self-care throughout the process, encouraging individuals to prepare emotionally, lean on support networks, and maintain healthy routines.
This educational resource is independently supported by Amgen. All content was developed by SES in collaboration with an expert ambassador group. Funders were allowed no influence on the content of this resource.
