"I Have Cancer": 48 Things To Do When You Hear Those Words (Wisdom to Practice Book 1)

At least once in your life someone will say to you, "I have cancer," and when these three words are spoken, you may struggle with a response. Twenty years ago a good friend informed me she had breast cancer. I didn't know if I should be upbeat (telling her she would defeat it) or just hug her and say how sorry I was. I did what most people do. I said, "I'm so sorry," a safe answer but not necessarily a helpful one.

Twelve years ago it was my turn. "You have prostate cancer," the urologist said. "And it's aggressive." I don't remember what I said to him, but I still become nauseous thinking of his four words. I was fifty-seven then. Death was still something theoretical, something that happened to other people-- people of my parent's generation.

Throughout my service to people living and dying from cancer, I heard that although they wanted to share their diagnosis, they were concerned how friends and loved ones would react. Often when they said, "I have cancer," there was an awkward silence accompanied by a painful expression.

The purpose of this book is to help loved ones and friends understand what we are experiencing and what they can do to help us on our journey. You will learn 48 things to do that will support your loved one or friend on this unsettling journey you both will travel. The suggestions range from the simplicity of compassionate listening to the gut-wrenching preparation for death.