SETTING UP A SUPPORT NETWORK Ask how the person diagnosed wants to be supported so you know how to structure the support network, which tools to choose to set up the network, and how everyone can work together to provide consistent support. LEARN HOW THEY WANT TO BE SUPPORTED How do they want to be supported? Are they private or an open book? Who do they want as supporters? Where are the info-sharing boundaries? What are they willing to share and what is to be kept private? How do they want to communicate with each person in the support group (likely different depending on each relationship)? What kind of support can you provide that is most authentic to your relationship? (e.g., are you a problem solver, fact gatherer, comic relief, active listener, social organizer, etc.) IMPORTANT REMINDER: There are so many things you can do to be supportive. Try not to feel intimidated. You know them best. You don't have to do something big to make a big difference in their life. Just bthere and be authentic.