I've been asked to speak at a RFTC, ideas on Advocacy mentions?

Anonymous

Hope that made sense.

I was asked to speak at a Race For the Cure in a Chicago suburb this month.  I am delighted, honored, stunned, and a bit scared.  When I was a teacher, I would make the students speak at concerts because I was sure I'd freeze at the mike and stammer, "I have a cat.....her name is Rosie O'Donnell......."

Any ideas on what to say so I really pack a good "punch" so to speak?  I know what I want to say, but need help filtering out the want to say words with the need to say words........

Should I simply read my "Cancerversary" post I  post here every year? With a few tweaks? 

Love and prayers, Deb

PS-sorry I have been gone for a long while.....dealing with lots of blood clotting issues and narcolepsy issues nowadays! 

Binney4

Deb, perhaps you could point out how far we have to go -- that so many of us "survivors" are now dealing with painful or disabling chronic conditions created by our cancer treatment. Like Lymphedema and Post-Mastectomy Pain Syndrome. So many people think we're "all better," and that's so far from the reality.

Thanks -- you're really brave! It'll be good!
Binney

TerriD

How about things NOT to say, like "wow, that looks gross!" Comments like that can make some recoveryees never want to leave the house.

sideout

Hi Deb,

From my own experience speaking to large crowds about my leukemia, I find that they appreciate the details of your own personal story with some tie-in to all patients...what they really want to hear is what your experience was like...how did you discover you had breast cancer?...how did you approach your diagnosis and treatment?...how do you feel about their efforts to raise money for patients like yourself?...how did money raised for research and supporting services help you in your experience?

I love including quotes in my speeches...it's often a good way to either begin or end your talk. Thank them for what they are doing.  Here's a quote I use a lot that you might be able to incorporate:  "I am only one, but I am one.  I cannot do everything, but I can do something.  And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can." - Edward Everett Hale.  The fact that they are out there taking action is a huge deal.  So many people think about acting, but never do. 

Good luck and have fun!!  I never knew how much I enjoyed speaking in front of large groups of people until I shared my cancer story with them...now I'm addicted!!  

Julie