Just Being There For Someone With Cancer Can Do Wonders
Twenty three years ago this September, I was diagnosed with lymphoma (Hodgkin’s Disease). I was stronger, more active, and having more fun than any other time of my life. I was 20 years old. Well, they gave the works! I received a test called a lymphangiogram, to see how far the disease had spread, and exploratory surgery along with removal of my spleen. I received 8,000 rads of radiation therapy. After emerging out of all this at only 130 pounds, the wait began. Five to seven years. Well I’ve made that and then some, and my doctors several years ago declared that I was a “cure.” Thank God.
Because of my experience, I now have the wonderful opportunity to do some good. I am a volunteer for CanSurmount, a support group that works in conjunction with the American Cancer Society. Members offer newly diagnosed patients the opportunity to discuss their concerns with those who have successfully confronted cancer. I am convinced that even the most dedicated, highly trained health care professionals do not possess the special ability that CanSurmount volunteers have to truly connect with newly diagnosed patients. They need emotional support from people who have been there.
About a year ago I counseled a woman named Dori. She had been diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Disease. Unfortunately, her cancer had returned and she was scared to death. Because of her pending trip to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle for a bone marrow transplant, we only had time to talk on the phone. I did what I could to comfort her, but I felt like I was not succeeding. A few months later, I heard that she had suffered a serious infection and spent 10 days in intensive care. I was very afraid for Dori.
A few weeks ago, I attended the Relay For Life fun-run sponsored by the cancer society. A young woman there walked up to me with tears in her eyes and said, “I’m Dori.” She gave me a big hug. She is doing fine. She thanked me profusely for being there during some of her darkest hours. I cannot describe what it felt like to have been a small part in helping someone come back from the abyss.
Statistics show that you or a family member will be affected by cancer sometime in your life. If you know a person who has just been diagnosed, direct them to the CanSurmount group. You will someday be thanked.
MEMO: To submit a Your Turn column for consideration, contact Rebecca Nappi at 459-5496 or Doug Floyd at 459-5466 or write Your Turn, The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 2160, Spokane, WA 99210-1615.