talkingaboutcancer.com

I’ve written a number of posts about how important friends and family are when you are going through cancer treatments.  It’s the little things, sometimes, that mean the most.  Supporting someone with cancer is not all about talking and offering direct support, but sometimes just being a caring friend in other ways is enough.

The day I received my last CT Scan results is a case in point.  It was a no-bad-news report so we treated it as good news – great news, in fact – and after sharing that with our great friends next door, they spontaneously invited us out for dinner.  Their treat!  We were thrilled at their gesture and found it a great way to cap off the day.  We didn’t speak much about the tests or about my disease, but instead just enjoyed the company.  When they insisted on paying the bill, I didn’t object, because it was their way of doing something for us and turning it into a polite, socially correct argument would have taken something away from them.

On two other occasions, my best friend Steve, dropped by and made us dinner.  He loves to cook and, as much as he has trouble talking about my situation, he wants to be here for support and this is a great way of doing it.  Each time, he didn’t stay too long as he knew we were tired and stressed and he knew that a couple of hours and a good meal were enough.  I treasure this great friendship and know that he will always be there for me.

So, if someone you know our love has cancer, and if you can’t figure out how to provide support, think about this kind of gesture.  It doesn’ have to be a meal in or out, but just dropping by for a visit can mean the world to them.  And if they don’t think they are up to it, let them know that it’s okay to say no.  There will be lots of opportunities to show your love and support.  But don’t hesitate.  Just do it, as they say!

Posted by Doug 

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