Informing family members
Many people have found that informing immediate and extended family members about an inherited condition that has been discovered, can be complex and challenging. The diagnosis can have far-reaching genetic and emotional implications.
You’ll need to be prepared for a variety of reactions, including:
- denial and disbelief
- fear
- shame and guilt
- anger
Hopefully, you’ll also receive support and compassion from family members and friends. These events can bring people together in their search for information.
Please remember that it is not your responsibility to provide genetic counselling to family members or to ensure that they seek testing. All you can do is let your family know what you’ve found out.
Sample Family letter
This Microsoft Word templated letter has been created to help you find the words to explain to your family what has happened.
