Kindness & encouragement

Cookie66

Hello,

I've been going through emotional roller coaster like everyone does. I just read a topic of hurtful words people said to you. I'm really shocked how some people have no empathy or sensitivities.

I'm now curious to know the opposite experience of people have. What are some of the things other people said or did to you that really touched your heart, gave you hope and encouragement?

Thank you for sharing.

Cookie66

Moderators

What a wonderful idea for a thread, Cookie! We will love seeing the positive and encouraging support others have expressed!

Thank you for bringing a little sunshine to the boards

--The Mods

MissouriCatLady

I had my HP infusion today. I'm on a schedule with Louie, a man with stage IV lung cancer. He is a bachelor, was kicked out of the army, has herpes, goes to church and does not eat shellfish, pork or something else that I can't remember, is nice and very opinionated at the same time. He lives by himself. He had a disagreement with a fellow infusioner 2 times back and, the last time I had an infusion, the chemo nurse talked to him, in a way that I was not sure was good, and he agreed with her that everyone is different and some times others are going through a hard time and just need quiet time.

Today was infusion day and I knew he was coming. My radiation friend and her husband showed up and we were all having a pleasant conversation. Louie arrives and talks about how he cried in the doctor's office this morning. I asked him, what did she say to you? That he would most likely be on chemo until the day he died, and he teared up. And I thought to myself I need to take a good look in the mirror before I ever say or think another bad thought about anyone. This "club" we are in, the chemo/cancer club, needs to be nothing but supportive and understanding of each other, no matter what we are going through, no matter what kind of person we are. Death is a scary thought for many of us. I hope you don't mind my sharing this. I had to go back to work, and it is on my mind. Thank you, Lisa

DorothyB

I have a friend who lives out of the country. I usually visit them 3 times a year and they come to US once a year. Many times she has responded to my e-mails and facebook messages with things like "You continue to do a great job taking care of yourself" and "You are doing well! Will keep praying. You are discovering you are much stronger than you think you are." etc

MissouriCatLady

Dorothy, it is helpful to hear words of encouragement, how nice of your friend.

HopesFiercely

A neighbor called immediately after hearing my dx and told me about a cancer support group in my area that her friend is involved in. I went and it has been a great help. She also sent me a beautiful uplifting card every couple of weeks. She added little note to remind me to stay positive. I never realized just how important a card can be. I have sent cards to others since then in hope to give them love and support.

When I had to miss the yearly family picnic because the chemo had knocked my immunity down so low my great niece made a card and everyone at the picnic wrote an encouraging and loving messege. It felt like a big warm group hug.

I am utterly amazed at the strangers who noticed my chemo cap and approached me and told me a little about their own cancer experiences in a positive uplifting way and encouraged me. Lots of kind people who care out there. I am so grateful to them.