Cancer Poems

Cancer's Journey: Poems from Patients and Loved Ones Fighting Cancer

Cancer, the dreaded "C" word. It has become such an epidemic in our society that people are loath to even mention its name. Cancer is a disease that can affect many different parts of the body. Some of these diseases are more serious than others. It is not only the disease that is painful but also the many way of treating it. Radiation treatments may kill the cancer but are also dangerous for the body. Chemotherapy comes with many side effects such as hair loss and severe nausea. The many faces of this disease challenge an individual to show their fighting spirit and will to live.

20 Poems about Losing a Loved One to Cancer

1 - 20 of 20

Sort By

1. Our Hearts Will Always Touch

I wrote this after I lost my Mum to Cancer. We only found out 7 weeks before she passed away from the disease. I was alone with mum when she passed away. I feel honored that she felt comfortable and safe to go peacefully in my arms however the vision of her last breath will play on my mind forever. I miss my mum so very much....SO VERY MUCH. She was my world (just like she always used to say to me). I pray she is happy and safe and I pray even harder that we meet again. I have to see my beautiful mum again. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH MUMSY..Always and Forever...your Narny...xx

Top 500 153
- By Ranja Kujala
- Published by Family Friend Poems September 2007 with permission of the Author.
When I lay there beside you,
Could you feel me there?
My arms were wrapped around you,
And I was stroking your hair.

When I lay there beside you,
Could you feel me there?
My arms were wrapped around you,
And I was stroking your hair.

I was talking about all the good times,
For me they were every single day.
I wanted you to feel love and comfort,
And happy in some way.

I watched your every breath,
And prayed that each one wasn't your last.
The time we got to share together,
Went by too quick...Too fast.

I wanted you to wake up,
Please Mum...Open your eyes.
Tell me this is a nightmare,
And not our goodbyes.

As your last breath grew closer,
We lay there peacefully together.
My heart continually breaking,
Because I wanted you forever.

Then there it was,
Your final breath of air.
I didn't want to believe it,
This is so cruel and not fair.

I held your beautiful face,
And prayed you'd breath again.
I wasn't ready for you to go,
I couldn't admit that this was the end.

But then I realized that you were now in peace,
And not suffering anymore.
You were beginning the life of an Angel,
And your body would no longer be sore.

I held you close and squeezed you tight,
And tried to say goodbye.
I've lost my Mum and my number one best friend,
All my heart could do is cry.

I slowly got up,
I wanted so much to stay.
I leaned over and gave you one more kiss,
It was so hard to walk away.

Mum, you are my entire world,
And I miss you so very much.
I wish I could feel your lovable cuddle,
And your soft and gentle touch.

But for now I have to wait,
Until we meet again.
You will always be in my heart and thoughts,
My dear Mum and best friend.

Always and Forever,
Our hearts will always touch.
Always and Forever,
Your baby girl loves you so much.
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 104
- Shares 4219
- Favorited 105
- Votes 3949
- Rating 4.65
Featured Shared Story

My mother got cancer when I was 8. She survived and was in remission for a year, but when I was 12 she was diagnosed with cancer again. This time we all knew she would die, when she told us I...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (104)

2. Daddy, Don't Be Scared

I'm 14 and This is a poem I wrote about my experience when my dad had cancer two years ago.

Top 500 295
- By Jade E. Mcnullen
- Published by Family Friend Poems February 2010 with permission of the Author.
Awaiting the news, we feared the worst and hoped for the best.
Life was about to put my family through an unforgettable test
Mom came in, evidence on her face, that daddy wasn't okay
"daddy has cancer" mom cried "we won't see him for a couple of days"

Awaiting the news, we feared the worst and hoped for the best.
Life was about to put my family through an unforgettable test
Mom came in, evidence on her face, that daddy wasn't okay
"daddy has cancer" mom cried "we won't see him for a couple of days"

I didn't sleep that night, that night was one of the worst
I have never been to a funeral before, and I feared daddy's would be my first
I cried myself to sleep, and little did I get
I wasn't ready to lose my only father yet

After the surgery, I visited Daddy, and I don't mean to be rude
But seeing him like this scared me, he looked like a skeleton decorated in tubes
It was exceptionally difficult not to cry, but I tried oh so hard
I walked over, hugged Daddy tight, and handed him my home-made card

It said: Daddy I hope you get well soon, I know you'll be okay
It's okay to be scared, we'll visit you everyday.
And when you get home, things will change, we won't ever fight, it's true.
Daddy never give up, keep on fighting...
I never want to lose you.

As his eyes scanned across the page, tears welled up in his eyes.
That was the first day I've ever seen my Daddy cry.
We hugged for forever, cried together, and quickly did time pass.
I never wanted to stop saying "I love you" for fear it would be the last.
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 31
- Shares 798
- Favorited 36
- Votes 1268
- Rating 4.66
Featured Shared Story

I was touched when I read your poem. My husband was diagnosed with cancer a month ago and is about to embark on his treatment. Emotions running high, but my husband is positive, and he has...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (31)

3. Goodnight Our Hero

Dedicated to the memory of our beautiful son Danny who died of cancer March 10, 2007, aged 13. A truly remarkable, loving, and inspirational child.

Top 500 296
- By Juli Round
- Published by Family Friend Poems June 2008 with permission of the Author.
Son Died Of Cancer Poem

To be brave is to cry
But still to fight on,
And that's what you did,
Our hero, our son.

To be brave is to cry
But still to fight on,
And that's what you did,
Our hero, our son.

The battle was hard.
We thought we had won,
But still you fought on,
Our hero, our son.

The happiness you brought
To the lives you have touched
Will live on forever
As you are loved so much.

When we close our eyes we can see you.
When we whisper your name we can hear you,
And when we reach with our hearts we can touch you.

Goodnight our hero, our son, our Dan.
You are just a child
But you have died a man.
More...

Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 42
- Shares 1633
- Favorited 20
- Votes 1051
- Rating 4.65
Featured Shared Story

I am so sorry. My great grandma died from cancer and so did my grandma. It must've been so hard for you. I can't imagine what you went through losing your son. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (42)
4. A Stranger Comes To Call

I'm a 63 year old grandad and I'm married to wonderful lady. We hope to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary in May 2012. We have two children adopted as babies, a boy and a girl, and a niece who we treat and regard as our daughter, we also have a grand-daughter and another on the way.
My poem, reflects my thoughts, feelings and emotions shortly after I was diagnosed with cancer. Perhaps it may help some other sufferers or their family members to read it, and I offer it on that basis.
John Kehoe - 24th. November 2010.

Top 500 482
- By John Kehoe
- Published by Family Friend Poems November 2013 with permission of the Author.
Thoughts On Being Diagnosed With Cancer

Some weeks ago through medical doubt
I met someone I'd heard lots about
I never thought our paths would cross
Our meeting left me at a loss.

Some weeks ago through medical doubt
I met someone I'd heard lots about
I never thought our paths would cross
Our meeting left me at a loss.
I'd had no contact with this guy
He picked me out...... I wonder why?

He's very sneaky, changes disguise
I've made small payments towards his demise,
But he moves about with sadistic glee
And now he takes revenge on me.
He's never redundant nor on the dole
He violates your inner soul.

He's sometimes slow and sometimes swift
But the net result is Satans' gift.
What can I do now he's moved in?
He's hurting now my next of kin.
He's no compassion no fear no shame
It's no surprise cancer's his name.

World-wide great efforts attack this thing,
And wondrous improvements this will bring
They'll drain his strength give him the sack
Once beaten he'll have no way back
It may be too late for you or me
But we'll fight our corner as best can be.

With help from family and friends
With medical treatment and new trends
We'll do our best through smooth and rough
To stay real positive ....... hang in tough.
And maybe before our final breath
We may rejoice at cancers death.
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 4
- Shares 1075
- Favorited 26
- Votes 613
- Rating 4.61
Featured Shared Story

I just love this poem. I have lived through so many of these phases, as though I was the one writing it. My name is Sharon Gross. I’m 55, and in 2015 I was diagnosed with Adeno Carcinoma of...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (4)

5. 5 Years Old

This is in memory of a wonderful young boy who fought cancer for most of his short life. He was diagnosed with an Atypical Rhaboid Tumor of the brain at 11 months of age. He lived more in his 5 short years than any of us have in a lifetime. His spirit and love of life moved all of those around him, and we truly lost an amazing child to this terrible disease. Just a reminder to all of those reading to support your local Relay for Life fundraisers and help fight back. Thank You!!
- By Kristie
- Published by Family Friend Poems May 2008 with permission of the Author.
Child Fighting Cancer Poem

What would you do
in 5 short years?
Would you make them the most
or hide from your fears?

What would you do
in 5 short years?
Would you make them the most
or hide from your fears?
Our little Cory
chose to live
Every day with a smile
and love to give
Though stricken with cancer
before he was one
his journey through life
had only begun
No matter how bad
he might have felt
He always knew how
to make your heart melt
Living life to its fullest
Each day he Awoke
He could make you smile
Every time he spoke
He filled the room
with laughter and tears
And touched many lives
in his 5 short years

He had a surprise
if you took his hand
then walk you outside
to his baseball land
It was the game he loved
more than anyone you know
Once his bat in hand
He'd put on a show
He would talk of his pets
if you'd lend him an ear
or anything else
you'd take time to hear
There were no strangers
to Cory Duane
He cared for everyone
no matter their name
The most amazing child
for such a young man
He looked up to his father
---- His biggest fan
When he was picked up at school
he beat all the kids out
with his arms opened wide
"That's my Dad" he would shout

They would wait on his brother
before going home with Dad
And spend the whole weekend playing
with every toy he had
He would tease his brothers
in his superman Jammies
and rock his guitar
like those at the Grammy's
Course Nana and Papa
would often stop by
to see that their "Precious"
was doing alright
At the close of day
He'd ask "Pat my Butt"
Knowing you'd take time
no matter what
He fought hard to beat
the disease he had
And would never complain
of feeling bad
It's certainly not fair
the battle he fought
All those who knew him
took in what he taught
For those who missed out
on life's smallest lesson
We're sorry you missed out
on our biggest blessing
For someone so young
his heart was of Gold
You would never have known
he was just 5 years old

More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 18
- Shares 483
- Favorited 19
- Votes 783
- Rating 4.68
Featured Shared Story

I have 2 really good friends who were diagnosed with cancer. It sucks. One girl was only 9 years old and fought. She won, but now has to take therapy.

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (18)
6. Mother's Smile

A mother who is suffering with cancer. Dedicated to my loving mother and all her million and one smiles.
- By Tessa McGregor
- Published by Family Friend Poems March 2008 with permission of the Author.
Poem About A Mother's Courage Facing Cancer

I remember your brave face through all the pain,
The day you told us and I tried to remain sane.
"I have breast cancer," you said as a matter of fact.
Yet you didn't shed a single tear; you stayed intact.

I remember your brave face through all the pain,
The day you told us and I tried to remain sane.
"I have breast cancer," you said as a matter of fact.
Yet you didn't shed a single tear; you stayed intact.
Throughout the radiation, chemo, and pill,
You still smiled and had such a strong will.
Your attitude is what carried you on.
Without it, I don't think that you would have lasted as long.
The cancer ate at you like a starved disease,
Killing your insides and slowly bringing you to your knees.
But still through it all you held that smile,
But sometimes I could see it faltered but only for a while.
I love you mommy with everything I have to offer and give.
Maybe one day they can find a cure and help other people
To still smile and live.
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 23
- Shares 508
- Favorited 15
- Votes 588
- Rating 4.60
Featured Shared Story

Hello, I am going to die from stage 4 breast cancer that has traveled into my lungs. My doctor told me that I had to think on the time that I had left. Was I just slapped, because I thought I...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (23)
7. Life's Lessons

A poem from a daughter to her mother written the morning after she lost her 48-year-old mom to a 5 year battle with various cancers.
- By Amanda
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2008 with permission of the Author.
Poem To My Mother Who Died From Cancer

It's not fair, I just can't let go.
I sit here and plead, why must she go?

She is my everything, my mom and my best friend.

It's not fair, I just can't let go.
I sit here and plead, why must she go?

She is my everything, my mom and my best friend.
Now that you have taken her, where do I begin?

Mom lived her life for others, giving until no end.
She's the one who told us to stand up and defend.
Defend our truths,
Defend our rights and live as we dream,
Defend the right to live our life
Any way we see.

You taught me life's lessons
And undivided love
Right from the beginning
When you told me not to shove.

Cuts and scrapes, bumps and bruises
Required all your love.
Calming me when I was upset
About who stole my favorite gloves.

Fresh baked bread in the morning,
Cookies in the afternoon,
Watching mom cook and bake.
There's nothing I'd rather do
To have that chance, to have her back,
Even the smell of her perfume.
A mother's touch, her soothing words
To hear her say, "I love you."

You lost a strong fight against cancer.
Let it be what may.
Even on your hardest days, you'd say,
"I'm just having a no hair day."

Someday I will see you again.
Not soon enough, I know.
I do my best to look past the how, look past the why.
Why so soon must you go?

You came, you loved, you conquered.
This I hope you see
The only question I ask of you is,
Are you proud of me?
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 26
- Shares 695
- Favorited 23
- Votes 569
- Rating 4.55
Featured Shared Story

I am now nearly 16, and I lost my mum to a 3 year battle of Secondary Glioblastoma when I was only 9. She was 39 when she passed. This poem has quickly become more important to me than any of...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (26)
8. To My Brother, Who Lost His Life To Cancer

I dedicate this to my brother, Gary Allen Hrenchir Jr., who lost his life to cancer. He was the smartest, kindest, most wonderful person ever. Forever in my heart, I love you!
- By Lisa Crisp
- Published by Family Friend Poems April 2009 with permission of the Author.
A Sister's Grief Poem

The time has come to say goodbye
I will try not to cry

It's been so hard to let you go

The time has come to say goodbye
I will try not to cry

It's been so hard to let you go
To be in heaven don't you know

But you did not go alone
Part of us went with you
The day God took you home

You will forever be in our hearts
Your memory will keep us from falling apart

You should hear the kind words people say
How you touched their lives in so many ways

I am so proud and blessed to get to say
That's my brother in every way

Thank you brother for all you gave
For everything you showed us along the way

Now I want to say to you
How much I love and miss you, too

So rest in peace, big brother of mine
I'll see you again when it's my time

Forever in my heart xoxox
Sister
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 0
- Shares 470
- Favorited 13
- Votes 282
- Rating 4.62
9. God Can You Hear Me?

This was just how I felt the last few weeks of my Dad's battle with prostate cancer. I knew in my head that he was not going to get better, but my heart was telling me otherwise. I always had hope, but it soon ran out.
- By Jamie A. Cirello
- Published by Family Friend Poems May 2014 with permission of the Author.
Poem About Father's Fight With Cancer

My eyes fill with tears,
And I could hardly see
This cancer is stealing my father
Slowly away from me.

My eyes fill with tears,
And I could hardly see
This cancer is stealing my father
Slowly away from me.

I can't stand to see him suffer,
I pray his pain would go away.
The light inside him fades a little more
With every passing day.

Please give him the courage
To fight a little longer.
I feel so helpless now.
What can I do to help make him stronger?

I can see it in his eyes.
It's like he wants to give in.
Cancer CAN be fought,
But you have to WANNA win.

Can't he see that we need him.
Shouldn't that be enough?
He has to think positive.
I know my dad is tough.

I sit and think and think
Until my head wants to explode
Always the same question: why him?
But the answer is still untold.

I wish by some miracle
His cancer would just disappear
And I could have my father back
And there would be no more fear.

God, can you hear me?
I never ask for much.
Would it be so wrong for me to ask
That you give my dad your special touch?

I'm not asking for money
Or diamonds or even a pearl.
I'm simply asking you to help him fight
Signed: daddy's little girl!
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 9
- Shares 1482
- Favorited 61
- Votes 780
- Rating 4.62
Featured Shared Story

This poem touched my heart in so many ways! I'm writing this through tears. On June 23, 2019, I lost my dad to cancer. I had just gotten to meet him. That sounds odd, I know, but I didn't get...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (9)
10. To My Mom

I wrote this poem one month before my mom passed away from cancer. I was 18 years old and about to graduate from high school. My mom, Rebecca King, was the strongest, most amazing woman I have ever known.
- By Jennifer Correa
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 2013 with permission of the Author.
Keep Fighting Cancer Poem

In your eyes I see the pain,
Slowly the tears roll down, they won't refrain.

I look down to the floor as if I'm hiding,

In your eyes I see the pain,
Slowly the tears roll down, they won't refrain.

I look down to the floor as if I'm hiding,
As I whisper, "Mom, keep fighting. Keep fighting."

As I reach for your hand, so strong yet so weak,
I notice the paleness in each cheek.

I am so afraid, what do I do?
I can only pray God will guide us through.

I lean over to kiss you goodnight.
Darkness lingers when I turn out the light.

As I walk out I look back through the glass.
Please don't give up mom. "This too shall pass."
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 7
- Shares 1314
- Favorited 25
- Votes 816
- Rating 4.62
Featured Shared Story

I am battling brain cancer. Doctors only gave me 2 months to live; that was 5 years ago. I'm now 36 and have 3 kids who need me. Every day gets harder to keep up the fight, but I can't...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (7)
11. My Special Sister Vicki

My sister dealt with breast cancer with the utmost dignity and courage we all admired.
- By Barbara Looney
- Published by Family Friend Poems June 2007 with permission of the Author.
Sister Fighting Breast Cancer

My special sister, I want you to know how much you mean to me.
My special sister has strength and courage her whole family can see.
My special sister showed us all how to handle life's blows.
My special sister took it all in stride, smiled, and said, "That's how it goes."

My special sister, I want you to know how much you mean to me.
My special sister has strength and courage her whole family can see.
My special sister showed us all how to handle life's blows.
My special sister took it all in stride, smiled, and said, "That's how it goes."
My special sister, through all her pain, never once gave up or complained.
My special sister has dignity, warmth, and inner beauty that can't be explained.
My special sister, with all she was going through, always thought of others.
My special sister always took time to give of herself to friends, sisters and brothers.
My special sister was always there with her kind thoughts, deeds, and caring.
My special sister is well-known and loved for her capacity for sharing.
My special sister needs to know how much she means to those who love her, especially me.
My special sister's strength, courage, and beauty are a shining example for all to see.
My special sister has carried a heavy burden for quite a long while.
My special sister would not allow us to share any of her pain but always her smile.
My special sister is surely a guardian angel sent from above.
My special sister, these heartfelt words are for you, from all of us who care, with all our love.
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 13
- Shares 906
- Favorited 8
- Votes 557
- Rating 4.61
Featured Shared Story

I cried like a baby while reading this poem. I was the care giver to a very good friend of mine, Peggy Sue Smith. She was given the awful news that she six months without treatment to one...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (13)
12. Cancer

Recently I did Race for Life, I have done it a few times but this year it meant a lot more to me because my Grandma had found a lump and we thought it might be cancer. I wrote this poem the night I found out about it. Fortunately, my Grandma had the lump removed and all is okay now, but it could have been a lot worse.
- By Jessica Louise Wheeler
- Published by Family Friend Poems December 2013 with permission of the Author.
Inspirational Poem For Fighting Cancer

One day you showed up,
With no reason why,
You claimed your victims,
You've made grown men cry.

One day you showed up,
With no reason why,
You claimed your victims,
You've made grown men cry.

I'm warning you now
That we're all fighting back,
One day we will stop
Your unprovoked attacks.

You've proven your point.
You make me sick to the core.
You've left so many waiting
Outside of death's door.

Enough is enough.
You can't ruin lives forever.
You've torn apart families
That were happy together.

Nobody knows
Why you're even here.
You're not wanted, you're hated.
You take those that are dear.

There's no explanation,
But I want an answer.
I know what you are;
you're that murderous coward they call cancer.

You've got nowhere to run
And nowhere to hide.
We are coming to get you,
So say your final goodbyes!
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 2
- Shares 633
- Favorited 30
- Votes 348
- Rating 4.60
Featured Shared Story

Cancer is a life changer and heart breaker. It takes someone close to you and kills them. It has made grown men cry because they are sad that their loved one has died. We all try to fight...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (2)
13. I Hate You Cancer

This poem is in memory of Vickie Frier and Leon Frier, Both who lost their lives to cancer.
- By Carolyn Pritts
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2009 with permission of the Author.
I hate you I hate you
Oh why can't you see?
How you took my heart and broke it
When you took them from me!

I hate you I hate you
Oh why can't you see?
How you took my heart and broke it
When you took them from me!

She was my favorite Aunt you see
For only a short time
And then you came and took her
While she was in her prime

She was there to lend a hand
When you thought you had no one at all
But that was until the day
That YOU came to call!

She suffered for so long
And was always in pain
You took a beautiful woman
And made her die in vain

He was my favorite Uncle
No, there is no doubt
And then you came into his life
And ripped my heart right out!

You took a great big man
And made him so small
So when the angels came to get him
It was not him at all!

He worked so hard to fight you
And stay with his kids and wife
But No, you would not leave him
Until you took his life!

You may think you won this time
But just you wait and see
One day, we will be together in heaven
Vickie, Leon and me!

More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 5
- Shares 489
- Favorited 25
- Votes 306
- Rating 4.59
Featured Shared Story

I totally relate!....unfortunately. My Mom fought and beat breast cancer almost 20 years ago. Hooray! Then 4 years ago got uterine cancer and beat that too!!! For 3 and 1/2 years. We just...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (5)
14. Walking On The Edge Of Life

We found out in May 2007 that my 13 year old son Sinjin has Cancer Burkitts Lymphoma. He has endured countless rounds of chemo and is fighting this heart and soul. He and I wrote this poem together after he told me, "It is like the world is moving forward and I am standing still." I have since written many poems about cancer. t helps me get through this without falling apart. I need to be now more than ever strong for my son. He has show us nothing but strength and courage since this monster came into our lives, and we stand united with him in this fight. Living strong with courage, faith and hope. Sinjin and Lorna ©2007 By Lorna Mahan & Sinjin Andrukates
- By Lorna Mahan
- Published by Family Friend Poems November 2007 with permission of the Author.
Poem From Child With Cancer

The world keeps moving forward
as time stands still for me,
I am the kid with Cancer,
locked in battle to be free.

The world keeps moving forward
as time stands still for me,
I am the kid with Cancer,
locked in battle to be free.
For all us kids on chemo
our lives are put on hold,
as we fight to stay alive.
Our chances are good, we're told.
Our attitude is courage.
We live this life each day,
just waiting for tomorrow,
praying cancer goes away.
Walking on the edge of life
we're never looking down,
united here in front of you,
until a cure is found.
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 11
- Shares 296
- Favorited 11
- Votes 494
- Rating 4.52
Featured Shared Story

My grandson, who's not even 3 years old yet, was just diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma. We don't know how much time he has. They tell us he doesn't have the mutated gene, which is good,...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (11)
15. Good Mommy

You can't prepare for the harshness and reality of the sickness and death of your Mother.
- By Mary B. Downes
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2006 with permission of the Author.
Hospital With Mother’s Body

You can't prepare for this:
the DNR in red letters,
last rites over,
the monitors off,

You can't prepare for this:
the DNR in red letters,
last rites over,
the monitors off,
the harsh fluorescent lights,
the curtains drawn,
and the bed rail down
because there is no place left
for your mother to fall.

And then you see her,
one eye half open,
her hands clawed like eagle talons,
her dry lips form an O of surprise,
and the tangled blue diamonds
of her hospital gown.

You reach for her,
bury your face
in the wing of her collarbone,
caress her cool cheeks,
then run your hands
down the rough cotton blanket,
feel how small she is.

Your chest is tight and aches;
this is what heart break
feels like, and now
you know.

You hear a rustle,
a young nurse presses
tissues and a phone
into your shaking hands,
ring ring ring ring,
but it's rush hour
and no one's home, yet.

You sit down so the nurse
can close your mother's eyes
and fold her hands on her chest,
while you stare at the table,
her dentures, her silver eyeglasses,
and the thick novel you brought
because she was supposed to live
through this night,
and the next.

You have some time
to straighten her matted wig,
brush some pink blush
on her waxy cheeks,
rub vanilla gloss
on her chapped lips,
spray her wrists
with sweet lavender cologne.

You remember
how much she liked cheap beer,
long cigarettes, and television,
how she knit you a white sweater
with three black kittens
for the first day of school,
how she got drunk one night
and called you a tramp.

You regret telling her
to go straight to hell,
because you know
she had a hard time
raising three kids alone,
Besides, fourteen years
of bone cancer
was hell enough.

You drag your chair to the bed,
wipe the hot tears from your face,
rub her stick thin legs,
and whisper,
'You were a good mommy,'
the same words
you will write on a slip of paper
and tuck behind the crepe pillow,
just before they close her casket.
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 2
- Shares 43
- Favorited 7
- Votes 221
- Rating 4.48
Featured Shared Story

Dear Mary - your poem resonated with my experience of losing my mum (Sept 11) hugely. I'm so sorry we and others have gone through this. I was looking today for something to comfort me as I...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (2)
16. I Wish I Could Stop The Rain Falling

This poem was written about my Dad who was diagnosed with cancer 2 months ago.
- By Ellie
- Published by Family Friend Poems November 2009 with permission of the Author.
It was raining the day you told us,
And ever since I feel like it has not stopped pouring down.
I wish I could stop the rain falling,
And hold your head up and not let you drown.

It was raining the day you told us,
And ever since I feel like it has not stopped pouring down.
I wish I could stop the rain falling,
And hold your head up and not let you drown.

I can see it has taken your smile,
As you stare out the window and watch it rain.
I wish I could stop the rain falling,
Hold your hand and take away your pain.

I wonder how you must be feeling inside,
I guess the rain reflects your outer side.
I wish I could stop the rain falling,
And sit with you until it all subsides.

I wish that curse would disappear,
I wish that rain could drown your feelings.
I wish that you were not living with this fear,
I wish I could stop the rain falling.
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 4
- Shares 226
- Favorited 13
- Votes 136
- Rating 4.44
Featured Shared Story

My mother had cancer and just reading this tugs at my heart, and I start crying because I had the same experience as you. Just don't ever give up, things will get better. Just smile.

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (4)
17. To My 2-Year-Old Little Girl Fighting Cancer

My 2-year-old daughter was diagnosed with stage 4 liver cancer and lung cancer 1 week after her second birthday. It's been a difficult 9 weeks and not even half way through treatment! We almost lost her on PICU during this early stage due to internal bleeding, but with her strength and the doctors she defied the odds. Six more months of intensive chemo coupled with a liver transplant of which I am the donor and hopefully my girl will be free of this disease.
- By David Austin
- Published by Family Friend Poems March 2014 with permission of the Author.
Being a father
Is unlike anything else
It makes you happier
Than life itself

Being a father
Is unlike anything else
It makes you happier
Than life itself
Your job is to protect
And always be there
For whatever happens
No matter how fair
It's taught me a lesson
And one which is true
That love is a feeling
I have just for you
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 1
- Shares 169
- Favorited 3
- Votes 290
- Rating 4.43
Featured Shared Story

I really liked this poem. This really touched my heart.

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (1)
18. Pink Ribbon

Hi, my name is Kevin, and I lost my wife over 6 years ago, and I still miss and think of her every day. She died of breast cancer at the age of 46, leaving behind four children who loved her very much.
- By Kevin T. Pearson
- Published by Family Friend Poems May 2012 with permission of the Author.
Poem About Wife Dying From Breast Cancer

They said time would ease the pain.
Every day I still feel the same.
I wake every morning reaching for you,
My pillow soaked with my tears like the morning dew.

They said time would ease the pain.
Every day I still feel the same.
I wake every morning reaching for you,
My pillow soaked with my tears like the morning dew.

We were so sure this was something we could beat,
Knowing it would be no small feat.
The ribbons of pink now mean much more,
Just never thought this would come knocking on our door.

We fought for more time together,
Thinking every day you were getting better.
Every day, rain or shine, seemed to be lined with gold.
We still talked of our future plans of growing old.

We heard of so many that had survived this.
I still remember our last kiss.
We thought we could win for sure.
Now for others I can only hope for a cure.
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 12
- Shares 571
- Favorited 11
- Votes 236
- Rating 4.42
Featured Shared Story

Death Anniversary - I lost my wife to brain cancer on July 16, 2003. We were married for 5 years. We took her to the best hospital in Pakistan, and at third stage we thought we had beaten it...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (12)
19. Battling Cancer

My brother-in-law was battling cancer and slowly loosing the battle...he was faced with a hard decision to keep trying the treatments and be sick all the time, or let nature takes it's course. I needed him to know we were all there for support with whatever decision he should make, and that we loved him so. Rest In Peace Keith, Love You Always!
- By Heather Weitz
- Published by Family Friend Poems January 2011 with permission of the Author.
Making Decision To Stop Medication

Feeling tired
Feeling weak
With all the pain you do not seek

Feeling tired
Feeling weak
With all the pain you do not seek

Feeling scared and unprepared
Are feelings that we all share

In whatever you decide
We will be by your side

We all hold hands with each other
With love and hope for you my brother
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 1
- Shares 45
- Favorited 2
- Votes 128
- Rating 4.41
Featured Shared Story

I feel every word in this poem.
On June 2, 2010 I was told that I have stage four cancer. Still holding on.
Please read "

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (1)
20. Floundering

I wrote this poem during my first visit with my mother after learning a few days before Christmas that she has Stage IV kidney cancer. I do not live in the same state as my mother, but spent the Christmas holiday with her. During our time together, I struggled with a range of emotions. I wanted to be a source of support for my mother, and yet I was still digesting the news and trying to come to terms with it.
- By Dr. Jamie Y. Marable
- Published by Family Friend Poems August 2015 with permission of the Author.
Poem About Struggling With Mom's Cancer Diagnosis

Emotion. Less.
A tall order of contradictions
Compassion
Space

Emotion. Less.
A tall order of contradictions
Compassion
Space
Conversation -
But not too much
I am touched
I smile
Trying not to display pity or pain
A mission impossible:
Be her brave and silent warrior
As she fights
The battle of her lifetime
I come up short
Unarmed
Untrained
Ill-equipped
Faith floundering
Fear overflowing
More...
Go To Complete Poem
- Stories 1
- Shares 55
- Favorited 4
- Votes 42
- Rating 4.02
Featured Shared Story

I had a beautiful, loving, great marriage for 26 years to my husband. His name was Rick and he was 58 years old. I lost him to Esophageal and Spinal Cancer 5 years ago. I still feel like it...

Read complete story

Touched by the poem? Share your story! (1)

1 - 20 of 20

Cancer Poems

Cancer's Journey: Poems from Patients and Loved Ones Fighting Cancer

20 Poems about Losing a Loved One to Cancer

1. Our Hearts Will Always Touch

2. Daddy, Don't Be Scared

I'm 14 and This is a poem I wrote about my experience when my dad had cancer two years ago.

3. Goodnight Our Hero

Dedicated to the memory of our beautiful son Danny who died of cancer March 10, 2007, aged 13. A truly remarkable, loving, and inspirational child.

4. A Stranger Comes To Call

5. 5 Years Old

6. Mother's Smile

A mother who is suffering with cancer. Dedicated to my loving mother and all her million and one smiles.

7. Life's Lessons

A poem from a daughter to her mother written the morning after she lost her 48-year-old mom to a 5 year battle with various cancers.

8. To My Brother, Who Lost His Life To Cancer

I dedicate this to my brother, Gary Allen Hrenchir Jr., who lost his life to cancer. He was the smartest, kindest, most wonderful person ever. Forever in my heart, I love you!

9. God Can You Hear Me?

This was just how I felt the last few weeks of my Dad's battle with prostate cancer. I knew in my head that he was not going to get better, but my heart was telling me otherwise. I always had hope, but it soon ran out.

10. To My Mom

I wrote this poem one month before my mom passed away from cancer. I was 18 years old and about to graduate from high school. My mom, Rebecca King, was the strongest, most amazing woman I have ever known.

11. My Special Sister Vicki

My sister dealt with breast cancer with the utmost dignity and courage we all admired.

12. Cancer

13. I Hate You Cancer

This poem is in memory of Vickie Frier and Leon Frier, Both who lost their lives to cancer.

14. Walking On The Edge Of Life

15. Good Mommy

You can't prepare for the harshness and reality of the sickness and death of your Mother.

16. I Wish I Could Stop The Rain Falling

This poem was written about my Dad who was diagnosed with cancer 2 months ago.

17. To My 2-Year-Old Little Girl Fighting Cancer

18. Pink Ribbon

Hi, my name is Kevin, and I lost my wife over 6 years ago, and I still miss and think of her every day. She died of breast cancer at the age of 46, leaving behind four children who loved her very much.

19. Battling Cancer

20. Floundering