Last week I talked about breast cancer and how it changed me. I talked about support, but I want to spend more time this week talking about supporting each other. Whether you are currently undergoing a breast cancer journey or another type of journey (health, family or anything), having a support system is key.
If you are a patient for some sort of health journey, talk to your providers and see what type of support is available for you. It could be things like rides to treatments, classes to help you navigate or even support groups to talk with others.
There are also people out there who may say to you, “let me know if there is anything you need when you go through this journey.” You might not want to ask for help, but you should! I know that is hard to do but they can help you in so many ways…driving you to treatment or appointments, walking your dog, providing some meals or many other things. Asking for help is not a weakness, it is a support when you need it!
There are so many ways that we can also support those who are having a journey. The best way is to listen! When you express to someone that you are sorry that you have cancer (or whatever they are experiencing), take a step back and listen if they want to talk. Letting them talk might provide a distraction and take their mind off what is happening to them. Cancer can be isolating, but you can remind them that they don’t have to put on a brave face all the time. And if you are someone who has experienced cancer before, share your story. The best inspiration for someone undergoing treatment is your survival story!
