Our Story.

We first crossed paths in the radiation treatment queue, where we’d seen each other a few times at the clinic. Both having tough days, we found comfort in sharing a bit about our struggles. We exchanged numbers and forged a friendship rooted in genuine empathy and mutual support. Sharing our experiences, strength, and hope brought us a sense of peace. We even made a pledge to pray for one another. Recognizing that others at the clinic might benefit from similar support, we hoped to extend an invitation for them to join us.

Message from Bob S.

I had unexpected company yesterday but here are my additional thoughts.

Cancer like many other diseases is a lonely journey. We all have family and friends who offer support and prayers. All of their intentions are heartfelt and sincere but often they find it difficult to express themselves and understand what a cancer patient is truly experiencing.

When one is in the early stages of cancer you are filled with hope and optimism about your future but when one is in stage four or even terminal, life becomes much more difficult from an emotional standpoint. The up’s and down’s of daily life often become overwhelming. Your inability to function as you once did become extremely stressful and overwhelming and this is where a support group can have its greatest benefits.

Sharing these struggles and finding how others are dealing with these challenges can be very emotionally beneficial to yourself and others.

How many of us have had family and friends say “you look good or you sound good when talking on the phone “ sometimes I just want to scream because I don’t feel good but I commit myself to trying not to complain and be strong for my family and friends.

Prayer often seems like an only refuge but a support group with people that are experiencing your same issues and feelings can offer one additional strength and comfort when you need it the most.

Message from Paul R.

Having a cancer diagnosis is a surreal experience that only someone on that journey can truly understand. As fellow travelers down that path, we share similar but different experiences, and connecting in community can synergize experience strength and hope with each other in powerful ways. As new patients appear, those of us father along can be a source of comfort and camaraderie to them if desired.

We can turn a challenge into an opportunity to share and help others.