110+ Short Positive Messages & Quotes for Cancer Patients

When someone you care about is diagnosed with cancer, it can be difficult to know what to say. That’s why we’ve put together this list of over 110 short, positive messages for cancer patients. From hopeful quotes to positive texts to funny messages, we’ll help you find the right words to offer your heartfelt support and encouragement to someone facing a cancer diagnosis and the resulting treatment. Plus, we spoke with pediatric pulmonologist and medical counselor Ran D. Anbar and marriage and family therapist associate Jacqueline House to get their advice on what to say to someone dealing with cancer.

Top 5 Short Positive Messages for Cancer Patients

You are not alone—your support system is here for you.
Don’t count the days. Make the days count. – Muhammad Ali
Cancer cannot cripple love, cannot shatter hope, cannot conquer the spirit.
I wish only good things for you and your family.
Just wanted to wish you love and strength today!

Section 1 of 10:

Encouraging Short Positive Messages for a Cancer Patient

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Help keep their spirits lifted with an encouraging message. One of the biggest mistakes some people make when a friend or loved one receives a cancer diagnosis is to say nothing.^{[1]
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Research source} Cancer is scary for everyone, but even a short note of support and encouragement can make a huge difference to someone going through treatment. Try sending one of these encouraging messages:
- Hope may be elusive, but it’s always there. Keep holding on—we’ll get through this together.
- Remember that it's okay to have tough days. Even during these days, you're still moving forward.
- I’m so glad you’re a part of my life. I look forward to doing all I can to support you.
- Cancer may have underestimated your indomitable spirit. Stand tall, for you have the power to overcome any obstacle.
- I care about you. I hope each day something makes you smile.
- Cancer cannot cripple love, cannot shatter hope, cannot conquer the spirit.
- You are not facing cancer alone. We will get through this together.
- The road may be long, but your strength, faith, and determination will carry you through.
- No matter the diagnosis, you are important, you are loved, and you continue to make a difference every single day.
- Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you.
- Cancer begins with “can.” I believe you can do this, and I’m here for you.
- There will be ups and downs, but every step you take is progress. Each day is a step closer to healing.
- You are not alone—your support system is here for you.
- Take the time you need to heal, and always remember that you are surrounded by love and support.

Section 2 of 10:

Short & Funny Message for Cancer Patients

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Give them a well-need chuckle with a funny message. Making a joke might feel strange when facing a serious illness like cancer. But humor is a healthy coping mechanism that helps our fears seem less overwhelming.^{[2]
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Research source} “Send supportive notes, cards, and e-mails. These might include jokes and stories that will help lift their spirits,” says Anbar.^{[3]
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Expert Source

Ran D. Anbar, MD, FAAP
Pediatric Pulmonologist & Medical Counselor

Expert Interview} Here are a few lighthearted and funny messages to make them smile:
- I bought you these healing crystals. I don’t think they actually do anything, but they’re pretty, and they make great weapons.
- The only thing I know more stubborn than cancer is you. It's one of your best qualities, and it's your secret weapon.
- Chemo sucks. But if it sucks the cancer out of you, then… yay!
- I have to admit. I’m kind of impressed at your body’s ability to grow things in inappropriate locations.
- Losing your hair during chemo just means you have one less thing to mess with in the morning.
- They say laughter is the best medicine. Unless you have cancer, in which case chemotherapy is much more effective.
- There really are no good words for this situation…except swear words. Lots of swear words.
- As if cancer stands a chance against you! It’s clearly picked the wrong person to mess with.
- Just think, you get to take medication that’s more expensive than a month’s salary. So lux.
- I know you are worried about losing your hair, but it can’t make you look any worse than that at-home perm your mom gave you in 10th grade!
- There’s, like, a small chance radiation will give you superpowers. So There’s that.
- Well, there is one positive thing to your diagnosis: Now you can play the cancer card!
- You’re on the road to recovery, and I’ll be riding shotgun!
- Now, when someone complains about their bad hair day, you can shut them down every time.

Section 3 of 10:

Short Religious Messages for Cancer Patients

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Share a message of faith to give them comfort. Religious messages or Bible quotes can be extremely comforting to people of faith. It can help them lower stress levels, feel connected to others, and heal in both body and spirit.^{[4]
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Research source} Try one of these faith-filled messages and Bible quotes to offer your support in their time of need:
- Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God: I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. – Isaiah 41:10
- Always remember that God is your helper and protector. I will continue to pray that He restores your good health.
- For I will restore health unto you, and I will heal you of your wounds, says the Lord. – Jeremiah 30:17a
- May the peace and comfort of God surround you during this challenging time.
- There is power in faith. Have faith that God will watch over you and protect you.
- May God strengthen your heart and be the answer to all your needs.
- Keep the faith— faith in God, faith in your doctors, faith in yourself. One day at a time.
- May God hold you up and give you the strength to go through each day as you fight this battle.
- Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. – Psalm 31:24
- I am praying that you find strength in the Lord and his never-ending supply of love as you undergo treatment.
- May the hand of the Lord rest upon you as you recover from your recent surgery and heal.
- I will say of the Lord; he is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. – Psalm 91:1,2
- While we cannot see God, we can know of His faithfulness to us during the hard times as well as the good.
- Whenever God brings you to something, He makes sure that He will bring you through it.
- One day at a time, one step at a time. Do what you can. Do your best. Let your creator handle the rest.

Section 4 of 10:

Short Hopeful Quotes for Cancer Patients

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Use a famous comforting quote to help give them hope. Cancer is a heavy subject that’s difficult for many people to talk about. Instead of staying silent, rely on the wise words of a famous person to bring comfort to someone you care about. Here are a few uplifting and hopeful quotes to share with someone you know who is dealing with cancer:
- Don't look for miracles, you yourself are a miracle. – Henry Miller
- You can be a victim of cancer or a survivor of cancer. It’s a mindset. – Dave Pelzer
- Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you. – Walt Whitman
- To live is to suffer, to survive is to find some meaning in the suffering. – Friedrich Nietzsche
- What lies behind you and what lies in front of you pales in comparison to what lies inside of you. – Ralph Waldo Emerson
- Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. –Winston Churchill
- It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light. – Aristotle
- Believe you can, and you're halfway there. – President Theodore Roosevelt
- Once you choose hope, anything’s possible. – Christopher Reeve
- Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and loved more than you know. – A. A. Milne
- Each day is a gift. That is why they call it “present.” – Eleanor Roosevelt
- Nothing is impossible. The word itself says I’m possible! – Audrey Hepburn
- Out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope. – Dr Martin Luther King Jr.
- I am not this hair; I am not this skin; I am the soul that lives within. – Rumi
- Don’t count the days. Make the days count. – Muhammad Ali
- We have two options, medically and emotionally: give in or fight like hell. – Lance Armstrong
- The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts today. – Franklin D. Roosevelt

Section 5 of 10:

Short Positive Texts for Cancer Patients

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Send them a text to show your support during their illness. When you can’t be with them, a simple text of support can let them know you’re still thinking about them. It also helps keep you connected whether you live across the country or just want to send them a little love during a chemotherapy appointment. Here are a few supportive texts you can send to show support for a cancer patient:
- Every day may not be good, but there is something good you can find every day. 🌈
- In the midst of the storm, know that the sun will shine again. Keep faith and trust in the brighter days ahead.
- Every day, I’m sending you healing energy with my thoughts and my heart.
- I think about you all the time, with my mind and my heart.
- Each day brings you closer to healing. ❤️‍🩹 Hold on to hope, and better days are coming.
- Just wanted to wish you love and strength today!”
- Sending a bundle of positivity your way to light up even the darkest days.
- I’d love to spend time with you when you feel like having company.
- Even when it’s hard, I hope you remember how many people love 🥰 and support you.
- Sending you healing prayers.
- Sending you healthy thoughts!
- No matter what the future holds, I will always be by your side, supporting you with love and faith. 🫶
- Your light always shines through ✨, even in the most challenging times. We’re rooting for you.
- I’m always here to listen. You’re never alone.

Section 6 of 10:

Positive Messages for a Co-Worker with Cancer

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Let your co-worker know you’re rooting for them with a supportive note. Knowing what to say to a co-worker with cancer can be even more difficult than communicating with a friend or family member because you may not know them as well. However, a positive message can still help them feel connected to their work community. Here are a few options you can use for cards and other messages for your work colleagues:
- May your journey be filled with swift healing and a future brimming with joy and renewed vitality.
- Wishing you strength, peace, and healing during this trying journey. You are in my prayers
- I’ll be thinking about you.
- I hope each day brings a little more strength, determination, and healing your way.
- Remember, progress is not always measured by leaps and bounds, but by the determination and perseverance you display every day.
- You and your family are in my thoughts.
- Here’s to you—I hope that you get steadier, stronger, and better every day.
- Allow yourself to rest, rejuvenate, and let your body work its miraculous magic. We eagerly await the day when we can celebrate your triumphant return!
- I hope you have a very speedy recovery!
- I’m sorry you’re going through this. I want you to know I’m cheering you on.
- Sending healing vibes and warm wishes for a speedy recovery. Your strength and resilience will guide you through this challenging time.
- Wishing you strength and health and a speedy recovery!
- I just want you to know you are in my thoughts every day. We’re always here to support you.
- With each sunrise comes renewed hope and strength. Know that I’m cheering you on from afar.

Section 7 of 10:

Short Messages for a Cancer Patient’s Family & Caretakers

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Send a thoughtful note to support families and caretakers. Families and caretakers of cancer patients need support, too. They might be stressed and trying to balance their regular responsibilities with new ones. They may also be dealing with some of the same emotions the cancer patient is facing.^{[5]
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Research source} Let them know you’re there for them with a thoughtful message like the ones below.
- Your love and care make all the difference.
- When someone we love is suffering, our love heals their hearts and calms their souls.
- Please be kind to yourself. You’re taking on a lot right now. Let me know if you need a break.
- It’s not the strength of the body that counts, but the strength of the spirit. – J.R.R. Tolkien
- I’m so sorry that you have to go through this. You have been keeping up a brave front, but I wanted to make sure that you know I am here for you.
- Your strength as a family is truly inspiring.
- Together, you can face anything that comes your way.
- You never know how strong you are until being strong is your only choice. – Bob Marley
- I’ve seen how great you are with trying to handle everything, but you deserve some “me time” for yourself. Let me take you for a pedicure.
- You are the rock they lean on—never underestimate your strength.

Section 8 of 10:

Short Get-Well Messages for Kids Fighting Cancer

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Show a kid with cancer you care with an age-appropriate message. Talking to kids about their cancer diagnosis can be tough, but it’s important to be helpful, accurate, and truthful. It’s also important for them to stay connected with their friends and family members during their treatment.^{[6]
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Trustworthy Source

National Cancer Institute
An agency in the National Institutes of Health focused on cancer research and patient support

Go to source} Use one of these phrases to help you know what to say to a kid you care about who’s dealing with cancer:
- I wish only good things for you and your family.
- Is the medicine that the doctors and nurses are giving you making you feel better? I hope so because we can’t wait until you are home again!
- A superhero is someone who faces tough times with the bravest heart. Psst…that’s you!
- I wish I could take this pain away for you.
- So many people are cheering you on! You’re smart, brave, and very, very loved. Hang in there!
- The littlest people sometimes face the biggest challenges with incredible grace.
- I’m sorry you are feeling icky right now. We hope that cuddling this new teddy bear will help you feel a little better!
- Not knowing what the future holds can be scary, and I'm in awe of your strength.
- You’re surrounded by love, and we are all rooting for you.
- No one is strong until they have to be, and I see the strength in you.
- I know you aren’t feeling well, kiddo, but I wanted you to know that you are the bravest kid I know.
- Being scared or sad doesn't mean you aren't the bravest person in the room. You are.
- My greatest wish is for you to be well again, and I’m going to help you get there.
- I’m sorry you are going through this. It really sucks.

Section 9 of 10:

What Not to Say to Cancer Patients

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Some well-meaning comments may not be helpful to a cancer patient. There are common statements many people rely on when they aren’t really sure what to say. But these phrases can come off as insensitive or trite. In most cases, it’s better to just be honest and say, “I’m not sure what to say.” Then tell them you care about them.^{[7]
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Research source} Here are a few unhelpful phrases cancer patients hear and what to say instead:
- “You don’t even look sick.” Instead, say something like, “I’m so sorry you have to go through this, but I’m here if you want to talk.”
- “I’m sure you’ll be fine.” Instead, say something like, “How are you feeling today? I’m here to listen.”
- “That’s the good cancer.” Instead, say something like, “I want you to know I love you, and I’m going to be here with you every step of the way.”
- “Everything happens for a reason.” Instead, say something like, “I just wanted to let you know that I care about you.”
- “I’ve heard that ‘X’ cures cancer.” Instead, say something like, “Have you and your doctor decided on a care plan? Do you need help getting to appointments?”
- “You are so strong and brave.” Instead, say something like, “I’m so sorry you have to go through this, but I’m here to help you be strong.”

Section 10 of 10:

Supporting Someone with Cancer

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Be a good listener when they need to talk. Letting a cancer patient know you are there for them and ready to listen when they want to talk is one of the best things you can do to support them. “Ask if they would like to talk about their illness. If so, listen rather than offering to help solve their problem,” says Anbar.^{[8]
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Expert Source

Ran D. Anbar, MD, FAAP
Pediatric Pulmonologist & Medical Counselor

Expert Interview} Tell them you know they may not want to talk, but you’ll be there when they do.
- Be an active listener by giving them your full attention without interruptions.
- Show you’re listening by maintaining eye contact and responding to what they say with nods and appropriate facial expressions.
- If they pause, ask questions to confirm what they’ve said or get clarification like, "So, you'll be going for treatment three days a week, right? Will you have a set schedule, or will it vary?"
- “And sometimes it's just not saying anything,” says House.^{[9]
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  Expert Source
  
  Jacqueline House, LMFT-A
  Marriage and Family Therapist Associate
  
  Expert Interview} They might just need someone to sit with them.
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Acknowledge and validate what they’re feeling. Being diagnosed with cancer can cause a range of emotions. Let them know that whatever it is they’re feeling is perfectly understandable. Try not to jump immediately to cheering them up, which can feel dismissive. Anbar says, “Don’t say you understand how they feel, as each person’s feelings are different.”^{[10]
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Expert Source

Ran D. Anbar, MD, FAAP
Pediatric Pulmonologist & Medical Counselor

Expert Interview} Let them feel what they feel. If they’re sad or scared, a good cry might really help them work through their emotions.^{[11]
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Research source}
- It can be upsetting to see someone you care about deal with their emotions, but staying strong and being there for them is a great way to offer your support even if you don’t say a word.
- Acknowledge their feelings by repeating what they’ve said to show you’ve heard them.
- For example, say something like, "I hear you saying that you're scared you won't be around to see your son graduate. I can’t imagine how terrifying that is, but I’m here to listen whenever you need me."
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Offer to help in specific ways. We’re often told to ask, “How can I help?” in these situations, but it might be more helpful to think about what they might need at that moment, says House.^{[12]
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Expert Source

Jacqueline House, LMFT-A
Marriage and Family Therapist Associate

Expert Interview} People don’t always know what they need or may feel uncomfortable asking for something. Help them out by offering to do specific tasks like giving them a ride to their doctor's appointment or picking up their prescriptions.
- Anbar adds, “You might offer to help with daily life activities such as making a meal, vacuuming, shopping, or providing transportation.”^{[13]
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  Expert Source
  
  Ran D. Anbar, MD, FAAP
  Pediatric Pulmonologist & Medical Counselor
  
  Expert Interview}
- If you offer to help them, make sure you follow through to show you really are there to support them. And if you know you don’t have time to do something, offer to do something else.
- However, sometimes people don’t want help. “Don’t repeatedly offer help that they reject, as this will cause them to feel unheard or disrespected,” says Anbar.^{[14]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Ran D. Anbar, MD, FAAP
  Pediatric Pulmonologist & Medical Counselor
  
  Expert Interview}