friends in need
They say that in times of need you find out who your friends are and I certainly have. I never knew or should I say realised what good friends I had until now.
For some strange reason in the beginning when I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, I chose not to tell anyone except my very good friend Kerry and of course Sgt Major. This in retrospect wasn’t the best decision I have ever made ;o/
Today is a ‘good day’ and a day I’d like to share with some of my friends and family that have helped me to this point. In no order of preference or importance below is my ‘friends indeed list’ you’ve all been wonderful in your own way. Thank you so much.
Whilst on his way to football practice, my son let it slip I’d been in hospital for my shoulder. Bev a close friend and someone who has always been there for me, replied
“I didn’t know she had been in hospital”
With the boys safely on the football pitch, Bev was back in her car and at my home. When she arrived Jill and mum was here having a chat.
We all sat on the sofa and everyone was chatting as if Bev knew already. The operation this, the operation that, the conversation flowed. I was still sore, fragile and it visibly showed, so Bev knew I wasn’t right.
She started to ask a few questions which led me show her the bandage. The bandage was in the wrong place for a shoulder injury, so she listened some more to the conversation. I don’t know how long it took but out it popped.
The inevitable question:
“So why were you in hospital, what was the operation?” I told her, I have breast cancer and have just had a lumpectomy.”
I was relieved that she knew, but with hindsight I should have said earlier it must have been such a shock, to hear like she did. Bev has always been a good friend and someone I could rely on and rely on her I did.
She would visit me daily and always seemed to bring something nice with her; home-made soup, books, magazines or just a piece she read on breast cancer.
To Bev thanks for all your help and continued support.
My neighbour and good friend Jill has remained as solid as a rock, visiting me and doing any shopping if needed. Once my radiotherapy started Jill kindly offered to take me to the hospital and I eagerly accepted.
In my first week of radiotherapy I had taken myself everyday and it wasn’t too bad. However towards the end of the week, I was tired and felt down. Going with Jill made it easier as we would stop off on the way home for a coffee and a chat, it all helps to take your mind off things. I’ve had numerous invites for dinner and many a coffee hour.
To Jill thanks a bunch and let me pay for coffee once in a while.
My friends Kerry & Christine have always and will continue to be a tremendous source of strength and inspiration. In so many ways you’ve helped me focus my energies into positive channels and outlets. For those of you who believe in positive thinking and crystals then these two have it all.
To Kerry & Christine I cannot begin to thank them enough!
Cousin Liz has been there, has listened, has given words of support, has sent emails literally daily and is always on the other end of the phone asking how I’m doing. When your chips are down certain individuals stick in your mind and this helps you make it, to the next step.
To Cousin Liz, for this and for all you’ve done I will be eternally grateful.
Mum who has enough on her plate without my health issues, has been a constant source of support in more ways than one. I have really missed not having her here and would love to be with her now. They say you only get one mother and their right.
Dare I say it, Sgt Major a tower amongst men. Now don’t get too big headed but I could not have got this far without your sternness and stubbornness ;o/ at times. Enough said.
This is by no means a complete or extensive ‘credits list’, there are so many more people to thank but I’ve only so much energy when typing! So to everyone who has helped me a BIG THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.
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8 Responses to “friends in need”
Have you or do you know someone touched by cancer? Then have your say below!
Lots of Love to you Jelly on Valentines Day…
I know its suppose to be about romance but I think we dont tell the people close to us often enough how much they mean to us so here it goes ‘You’re like a second sister to me so when you hurt, I hurt and when you cry, so do I.
I know how tough this experience has been but you’ve come out the other side of every challenge thats come your way and now you’re almost through. WELL DONE mate.
I know its an emotional roller coaster but you’re on that big slidey bit at the end now when you can get off and start to look ahead to re-shaping a life that makes your soul sing. I’m looking forward to seeing you blossom again. love always Kerry xx
Sgt Major here, just a quick note to say happy valentines and keep pushing on, your doing great.
No-one knows how you feel unless it is happens to them. So from what I know your managing fantastically well. Btw Diego sends his regards and wishes you a speedy recovery. Ciao.
Hi,
So sorry that we seem to have grown apart in the last few years, they have been very difficult for me. I have finally ‘come out into the sunshine’ and I want you to know that I am there for you if you need me, rain or shine!
Well done for being so brave and coping with everything that’s been thrown at you. I am so glad that you seem to have such loving friends around you to guide you. You are always in my thoughts,
Love
Jane
Hiya, I heard this week. Sgt Major dropped me a line. Lana & I send BIG LOVE. Sending a audio CD in the post. Hope it is of use.
I will spend more time talking to “your boy” via the PC. But from our conversations he seems fine. football, football, football.
Hug & Kisses
Happy Valentines.
p.s. Do you know who it is yet?
Dearest S,
I think about you a lot and what you are going through and I can’t imagine what it must be like to personally experience something like this…. You have to be one of the strongest women I know of and you are doing fabulously… Keep going, keep strong and determined and you will get there I know you will.
I wish I could have helped you more and I am grateful to Kerry Christine, Jill and Bev for being there for you I wish I could have been there physically. Eehor is a rock and I know he always will be…. I love you very much. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
When my very close friend was diagnosed with breast cancer nearly five years ago, although shocked, I never once thought I would lose her. Both her and everyone around her always remained positive. She, a single mum knew that she had to remain strong for her daughter and having the strength around her I’m sure helped. We are now coming up to time when she receives the great news ‘All Clear’.
You are nearing the end of what must have seemed like a mountain you’d never reach the top off, and with your courage and strength and support from all your friends and family you have nearly made it. Well Done!! You’re amazing!! Stay strong and remain positive and in no time you will be receiving that great news too.
Thinking of you, With love. Debbie xxxxx
Well my darling…I don’t need it to be Valentines Day to send you loads a luv…I do that every day. You´re almost a third daughter to me, but you´re also my friend, so you get double helpings of love!
I know its been a struggle, but you´re almost there, just think of that runner seeing the finishing line of the marathon. So take a big breath, and give it that extra bit…you’re a winner now and you always will be.
Remember…The bubbling brook would lose its song if all the rocks were removed.
Love you always. Christine xxx
Hi it’s me.
I hate this typing lark!!!!
I’m here for you always my friend and will do for you what is needed. Always.
Lots of love
Me xxxx