On Being Positive and Being There for Your Loved Ones...

Today, in the chemo room, Dad and I met the sweetest lady. She had stomach cancer, and she has been in treatment since August. Bless her heart, she has been through a lot. But you know what? She was still smiling, laughing, and joking. She is positive, even though goodness only knows the pain she has been through. My Dad is that way too, as are most of the people I have met in the oncology office and in the infusion room. 

I have no idea what it's like to have to be that strong; these people have touched my heart. The chemo room was a scary place to me the first time, and I'm sure it was for Dad too, but I am so grateful for the chance to meet and talk with these wonderful people. I know the infusion room is the last place they want to be, but many of them are doing what they have to do and are making the best of it. Also, the nurses and staff in the chemo room are some of the kindest and warmest people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I can't imagine how they do what they do every single day, but I am so glad they do. I am so glad that I have had the ability to be there with my Dad throughout his treatments. I've had the most profound change in myself, my attitude, and my outlook on life because of my Dad, all the people I have met, my family, and all the people that have supported us throughout this past year. 

I'd also like to say - to anyone who has a loved one facing something like this, please, put aside any issues you might have had with them in the past. Forget what they have or have not done for you in your life. It doesn't matter now. They NEED YOU to get through this. No one should have to go through something like cancer and not have support from ALL of their family. Love them like you have never loved them before. Put yourself aside, and care for and support them as much as you possibly can. They need you to lift them up and to know that you care and that you would do anything for them. They cannot do this alone.