Dear Editor,
I am writing this letter to express the need for an increase in cancer awareness since this disease is on the rise. I’m a recent cancer survivor and I hope sharing my experience will help others in dealing with this condition.
Two years before my diagnosis, I lost four friends to cancer and I thought I understood what they went through. However, you really don’t know what cancer patients endure unless you experience the situation yourself.
With my initial diagnosis I thought ‘Oh no, my turn for a possible death sentence.’ Then you prepare for all the tests, surgery and treatments. You’re overwhelmed and stressed with it all. I was so fortunate for the love, help and support of my family and friends
However, many cancer patients don’t have that support. Perhaps family isn’t close, working or unavailable. That’s where your community, communication and support groups can be accessed. But when I finished my radiation treatments, there was nowhere in Barrhead to access follow up sessions. This is a situation present in many small communities.
Thankfully, Thea organized a support group through the Cancer Society in Edmonton who supplied information and books. We’re all so grateful to Thea for her support, caring, understanding and going above and beyond in helping everyone. This support group allows you to share learn, laugh and feel welcome because everyone has ad the same or similar experiences. Every meeting creates knowledge, feeling of calm uplifting, wellbeing and friendship. We feel grateful and appreciate the cance to belong to such a wonderful group.
Since my cancer, I find my priorities have changed and find it’s important to spend more time with family and friends. I encourage anyone dealing with cancer and needing support to consider contacting anyone in our support group. We would be more than willing to listen to your concerns. Also, families with children who have cancer are welcome to reach out for support.
I hope this letter will encourage and help those with cancer and thank you for hearing me express my concerns. Bless you all.
M.R. Lamoureux
