HI FRIENDS AND FAMILY, I'm thankful for a good week since my chemo last Thursday. As I've said that was the first of 9 smaller weekly doses and SO FAR, the first one at least was very manageable. I was able to go and do with minimal symptoms. The aches seemed to kick in bad late at night, but not bad every night thank God. I do realize the subsequent doses will be accumulative, but I'm hoping for the best.
I'VE HAD A DESIRE to try out a monthly breast cancer support group but because of surgeries, chemo, etc. getting in the way, I just yesterday was able to make a meeting up in Ocala. I found the info. online through American Cancer Society webpage. There's another one listed in the Villages, but they meet on Thursdays which is my chemo day. The one in Ocala met in a Methodist church and the small group of ladies were all so sweet and welcoming; however, I was the youngest there among mostly older retired ladies which I realize is the largest age group to get breast cancer. They had a guest speaker there, a plastic surgeon who discussed briefly the different options for breast reconstruction which I'm already fully engaged in. It was informative though and I learned I still had some options.
I'VE HAD A NAGGING DESIRE/NEED/THOUGHT as to whether I should start my own breast cancer support group in our area. It doesn't even have to be limited to breast cancer necessarily. I know of several women in our small community who have been recently diagnosed or have battled in the last couple of years with cancer. I'm trying to decide the true need here and whether its just me. I'll need to pray about this and ask the Lord for guidance, but I'm just throwing this out there to my readers especially those who fall in this category. Would this be something of value to you that could be a lifeline and help with the isolation that cancer can bring? I know most of us are blessed with a wonderful support system of family, church and friends, but its a shame we can't all come together as cancer patients on a regular basis (say monthly) and lift each other up or share information. I remember in the early weeks especially, I would have jumped at this.
I'd value any feedback on this and if this doesn't apply to you, perhaps you could pass it on to your friend or loved one who could give their opinion.
Babe...I think this is an awesome idea! Hope you get good response! love you, Kenny
ReplyDeleteDina,
ReplyDeleteYou are such a positve role model and I feel you would be awesome at it. I think even if those who have lost family to cancer could be involved it would be great too. I know sometimes for me having lost both my mom and dad and been thtough it with my oldest daughter, holidays and anniversaries are especially hard and support and encouragement, and understanding is always helpful. Just a thought as you are considering it. You continue to be such an inspiration to me and I love you!
Holly
Dina, Just found this blog. How awesome. You are truly doing what God tells us to...to give hope and comfort even in the midst of trials and I agree that maybe you are enduring this trial to be that comfort to others. There are so many women in this area that are going through this right now and more than anything they need love, comfort and support. When my dad was sick with cancer you were such a comfort to me then because you had walked that path before me and you have that gift. I agree with Holly in the post before. This could turn into a support group not only for women with cancer but also for those that are being caregivers or have somehow been affected by cancer. Just food for thought. God bless you as you continue on your journey. My sister-in-law Shari Padgett has done several different support groups, the most recent for Alzheimer patients and their caregivers. You may know Shari...she is pastoral counselor at Oxford Assembly. Anyway, I am sure that she would be happy to talk to you about this as well. Love and prayers, Lori
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