HOX, try to get a copy of the book "Anticancer - A new way of life" by David Servan-Schreiber.
During the past 12 months, I went through cancer diagnosis, treatment (surgery and radiation), and post treatment recovery. I've found that the info presented in that book, especially the analysis of the psychological pressures and impacts on the cancer patients, should be very helpful for both the patients and the families.
Send me a private message if you need more info.