One of the best things we did when my mom started her cancer treatments was to talk with other cancer patients. The more experienced of them had many strategies for coping. As we learned their personal stories, we got a glimpse into their own strengths in managing treatment, side effects, and more than anything, the fear that accompanies a cancer diagnosis.
There is an organization in Louisville, KY that has been matching cancer patients with experienced cancer mentors since 1988. Friend for Life pairs people up, not to provide medical advice or tell cancer patients what they should or shouldn’t do, but to offer insight and guidance about living with cancer:
http://www.friend4life.org/index.php
A lot of cancer patients feel lost after their diagnosis. Families don’t always immediately understand the way cancer can affect the whole person. It takes time to understand what cancer can do to a family. Emotions are often raw, fears can simmer beneath the surface, and people don’t want to talk about it, because it’s so scary.
If you or a loved one are struggling with cancer, why not check out this group? You can never have too many friends in life, and having someone who’s walked in cancer shoes before you can be very reassuring. When you have fears or doubts that you can get through it, it’s nice to have a mentor to turn to for advice, encouragement, and even the occasional shoulder to cry upon. All volunteers are trained to help cancer patients.
Even better, if you are a seasoned cancer survivor, why not consider joining? Why not share your strength and courage with someone just beginning the journey? You might just make a difference in someone else’s life!