An Open Book
Music by: Terry Breen
Stressful Times
When we experience stressful times in our lives, we often seek support externally, either for comfort or understanding. Unfortunately, some scenarios can only be endured and if you don’t have that external support, tenacity becomes your only option. From the perspective of the person providing the support it can be difficult to know what to do or say. Sometimes there aren’t words that fit and all that’s required is your presence. What is important is that you are there and that the person that you are with isn’t alone in their time of need.
While I was going through chemotherapy, I experienced so much support from friends and family, it was overwhelming at times. The most stressful mental hurdle I encountered during that time was realizing the amount of stress I was causing the people that were supporting me. Not that I wasn’t thankful for their support, or that they were begrudgingly supporting me, the stress came from the fear of what the outcome could be and wanting to know answers to questions that they were too afraid to ask.
What I quickly realized while receiving treatment was knowledge equals comfort. I can handle bad news as long as my questions are answered, and that bad news was still better than not knowing. I took that attitude with me when I visited with friends and family. No question was off limits. I was and still very much am an open book about most things. Reflecting on that attitude I still don’t fully understand why some people choose to hide away during their time of need, but I understand that, that is the “normal” reaction here.
An Enlightening Lunch
While out to lunch one afternoon, with some cousins visiting from Seattle, my cousin asked me why I was so open about my story and my experience. I told him this, if sharing my story openly provides comfort for people supporting me, then it’s worth it. If sharing my story openly helps someone catch their cancer early, it’s worth it. If sharing my story makes it easier for someone to deal with something one of their loved ones is dealing with, then it’s worth it. It’s the least I can do in return for the support given to me.
Back to Work
I did my best not to miss much work during chemotherapy both out of necessity and for a sense of normalcy. There of course were challenges while doing this, but the one I couldn’t hide was the hair loss. About a month into treatment my hair and beard were coming out in fistfuls. Without hesitation I shaved my head and beard and embraced my new look. Which, of course, was the topic of discussion at all the stores I would visit, being a brand rep at the time. It almost worked as an ice breaker for the subject.
As I shared my story with countless people it became very apparent that just about everyone knows someone affected by cancer, if not themselves. I have heard unbelievable survival stories and met some incredible people. I will never know the full extent of the effect I had by listening to people’s stories or by sharing my own. I can say though it has had a positive effect for at least one person, who caught their cancer early because I shared my story with them. It will always be worth it.
For The Greater Good
I have been told that this is one of the most selfless acts anyone could do. If that is true, then I am proud to share my story with anyone willing to hear. I will take this lesson to other aspects of my life. I will encourage others to do the same. All to make this world a little bit easier to live in.
Thank you for taking the time to read this today. I would love to hear your thoughts about this in the comments section. Make sure to follow the socials to follow along.
