Starting Your Cancer Journey: What to Expect, Where to Find Support, and Resources Available in Ontario
Article by: Mary Lou Miller
“You have cancer.”
Few words have the power to change your world as quickly as these. Whether you or someone you love has recently received a cancer diagnosis, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, frightened, uncertain, or even numb. There is no “right” way to react.
The days and weeks following a diagnosis are often filled with appointments, tests, paperwork, and more questions than answers. While your healthcare team focuses on your medical treatment, it’s equally important to care for your emotional, physical, practical, and spiritual well-being.
That’s where community support can make all the difference.
At HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre, we believe no one should face cancer alone. We provide free programs and services to individuals and families throughout Waterloo Region, Wellington County, Grey-Bruce, Perth, Huron, Guelph, Cambridge, North Dumfries, Saugeen Ojibway Nation,Chippewas Anwasah Unceded First Nation, and surrounding communities, helping people navigate every stage of the cancer journey.
Having spent more than six years at HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre, I have had the profound privilege of connecting with individuals living with cancer, allowing me to share these insights into the questions and concerns we encounter most frequently..
Take One Step at a Time
After a diagnosis, it’s easy to feel like you need to make every decision immediately. In reality, you don’t have to have all the answers today.
A few helpful first steps include:
- Keep a notebook or digital file for appointments and questions.
- Bring a trusted family member or friend to appointments.
- Learn about your diagnosis from reliable sources.
- Accept help when it’s offered.
- Reach out for emotional support early.
Remember, your care extends beyond medical treatment. Looking after your mental and emotional health is just as important.
Does OHIP Cover Cancer Treatment?
One of the first concerns many people have is the financial impact of cancer.
The good news is that Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) covers many medically necessary cancer services, including:
- Visits with specialists
- Hospital stays
- Surgery
- Most diagnostic imaging and laboratory testing
- Many chemotherapy and radiation treatments delivered in hospital
However, not every expense is covered.
Depending on your treatment plan, you may still have costs related to:
- Prescription medications taken at home
- Parking at hospitals
- Travel to treatment appointments
- Medical supplies
- Wigs or head coverings
- Prostheses and compression garments
- Dental care related to treatment
- Home care supports not covered through provincial programs
Understanding what is and isn’t covered can help you plan ahead and reduce unexpected financial stress.
Financial Benefits Available to Cancer Patients in Ontario
Cancer often affects more than your health—it can impact your ability to work and your family’s finances.
Several programs may be available depending on your circumstances.
Ontario Trillium Drug Program
If your prescription medication costs are high compared to your household income, the Ontario Trillium Drug Program may help cover eligible medications.
Ontario Drug Benefit Program
Certain individuals, including many seniors and others who qualify, may receive prescription drug coverage through the Ontario Drug Benefit Program.
Employment Insurance (EI) Sickness Benefits
If you’re unable to work because of illness or treatment, you may qualify for temporary income support through Employment Insurance Sickness Benefits.
Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP-D)
If cancer or treatment prevents you from working for an extended period, you may be eligible for CPP Disability benefits.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Some individuals living with long-term effects of cancer may qualify for the Disability Tax Credit, which can reduce income taxes and may provide access to additional government programs.
Private Insurance
If you have benefits through your employer or a personal insurance plan, review your coverage carefully. You may have access to:
- Short- or long-term disability benefits
- Prescription drug coverage
- Medical supplies
- Counselling
- Massage therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Travel benefits
- Wigs and prostheses
A hospital social worker or patient navigator can often help you understand which programs you may qualify for.
What Do Cancer Patients Need Most?
Many people want to help but aren’t sure how.
While every person’s journey is different, cancer patients often say they appreciate practical support more than anything else.
Some of the most meaningful gifts include:
- Home-cooked meals or meal delivery services
- Grocery or gas gift cards
- Help with transportation to appointments
- Childcare or pet care
- House cleaning assistance
- Comfortable blankets or clothing
- Journals or colouring books
- Audiobooks or streaming subscriptions
- A simple text saying, “I’m thinking of you.”
- Someone willing to sit quietly and listen
Sometimes, simply showing up is the greatest gift.
Gifts That May Not Be Helpful
Although given with the best intentions, some gifts may unintentionally create additional stress.
Consider avoiding:
- Strongly scented candles or lotions, which may trigger nausea during treatment
- Live plants or flowers if the person’s medical team has advised against them
- Herbal supplements or vitamins that haven’t been approved by their healthcare provider
- “Miracle cure” books or products
- Large gourmet food baskets that may include foods they cannot eat
- Gifts that require energy or commitment, such as classes or projects
Above all, avoid telling someone they “just need to stay positive.” People living with cancer deserve space to experience the full range of emotions without feeling pressured to hide them.
Why Can’t Some Cancer Patients Have Flowers?
This is one of the most common questions people ask.
The answer is that many cancer patients can absolutely enjoy fresh flowers.
However, some individuals—particularly those receiving intensive chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, or treatments that significantly weaken the immune system—may be advised by their healthcare team to avoid fresh flowers or live plants.
That’s because bacteria and mould can grow in flower water and soil, potentially increasing the risk of infection.
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to ask the patient or their caregiver before sending flowers.
When flowers aren’t recommended, thoughtful alternatives include:
- A handwritten card
- Cozy blankets
- Meal delivery
- Tea or coffee gift cards
- Books or magazines
- Puzzle books
- Care packages with unscented comfort items
What Can Cancer Patients Claim on Their Taxes?
Many people don’t realize that certain cancer-related expenses may qualify as medical expenses on their Canadian income tax return.
Depending on your circumstances, eligible expenses may include:
- Prescription medications
- Travel to medical appointments
- Parking fees
- Accommodation when treatment requires travel
- Medical devices
- Prostheses
- Wigs prescribed because of hair loss from treatment
- Compression garments
- Certain home accessibility modifications
- Attendant care in some situations
Keep receipts throughout the year, as they can make tax time much easier.
If you’re unsure what qualifies, speak with a tax professional or visit the Canada Revenue Agency website for current guidelines.
Remember That Care Is More Than Medical Treatment
Cancer affects every part of life—not just the body.
Many people experience:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Relationship changes
- Fatigue
- Financial stress
- Fear of recurrence
- Isolation
These feelings are common, and you don’t have to manage them alone.
At HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre, we offer free programs designed to support the whole person, including:
- Cancer Care Counselling
- Support groups
- Gentle movement and exercise programs
- Relaxation therapies
- Educational workshops
- Programs for children and families
- Wig and head-covering services
- Post-mastectomy camisoles
- Opportunities to connect with others who understand what you’re going through
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, undergoing treatment, recovering, or living with advanced cancer, our compassionate team is here to help.
You Don’t Have to Walk This Journey Alone
Receiving a cancer diagnosis can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. There will be moments of uncertainty, but there will also be moments of strength, hope, and connection.
Take one day at a time. Ask questions. Accept support. Lean on those who care about you.
Most importantly, remember that you don’t have to face cancer by yourself.
HopeSpring Cancer Support Centre is here to provide free, compassionate support for you and your loved ones—because every cancer journey deserves hope, community, and care.