When I was diagnosed with...

[kodi]

I received this yesteday and although it is written about cancer I think the word 'cancer' can be substituted with 'heart' and certainly not distort the meaning of it all.
I can relate to either, since like a few other of us on this forum, I am also a cancer survivor.

When I was Diagnosed with Cancer:
My first friend came and expressed shock by saying, "I can't believe that you have cancer. I always thought you were active and healthly." He left and I felt alienated and somehow very "different".

My second friend came and brought me information about treatments being used for cancer and said "Whatever you do, don't take chemotherapy. It's poison". He left and I felt scared and confused.

My third friend came and tried to answer my 'why's statement'. "Perhaps God is disciplining you for some sin in your life." He left and I felt guilty.

My fourth friend came and told me , "If your faith is just great enough, God will heal you." He left and I felt my faith must be inadequate.

My fifth friend came and told me to remember "all things work together for good." He left and I felt angry.

My sixth friend never came at all. I felt sad and alone.

My seventh friend came and held my hand and said. "I care; I'm here: I want to help you through this." He left and I felt loved.

Thanks to this forum you are all my seventh friend.
Wishing you all the best for a wonderful holiday season.

Mel

 

[Glenda]

That was so neat. I too am a survivor of cancer, in fact I will live in "Cancerland" the rest of my life. I had breast cancer, kidney cancer and now I am living with leukemia, which there is no cure. Every time I go to the doctor I just hold my breath and pray "please not another different cancer."

It is amazing all the advice that you get from so called friends and how many true friends that you really do have. My family also seems to forget that I'm living with a terminal illness. Besides having a AVR two years ago and going to have a knee replacement in January, they think I am "just fine!" Someone is always telling me "you look great, you sure don't look sick." I'm not sure what I'm supposed to look like! ! They have no idea of the internal constant pain that I have. I guess I must put up a good front. Only my dear husband sees me cry and holds me tight when I hurt so bad. I know my God is a good God and I also know He won't give me more than I can handle, although sometimes I question Him. I still know that He is in control and He will take care of me and give me comfort.

I agree with you Mel 100%, this forum has been my comfort and best friend so many times.

Wishing you also a great "Merry Christmas" and "Happy Holdays."

 

[maka]

Glenda
What a brave lady you are. May the holidays bring you peace, health and happiness