Cancer survivors are inspired to become Support Volunteers for different reasons. The latest group of CHN volunteer trainees was no different.
One was motivated to support other caregivers because they would have loved to have had that support while they were caring for their mom, best friend, and cousin. Another was the first person diagnosed in their entire family and knows what it is like to feel alone. And still, another went through two bouts of strenuous surgeries whilst being a single mother and understands the value of support.
These six men and women each saw the value in talking with someone who has been there and wants to share that there is hope. Individually these journeys are treacherous and exhausting but together they provide hope. Half of the group underwent treatment during a pandemic, giving them a unique understanding of what it is like to undergo treatment alone. No one to sit with them as they battle their disease.
We are grateful and excited to welcome this new class of volunteers and are inspired by the overwhelming sense of caring and devotion they bring. One served 20 years in the military, aided in special Olympics, provided rides for cancer patients to their treatment, and still felt that he had more to give. Another saw her mother diagnosed, was diagnosed herself, and was inspired to help when she saw young women diagnosed felt compelled to tell them they, like her, could beat it. While each journey is unique some feelings and emotions are universal.
- Carmen – Breast Cancer, Stage 4 Bone Cancer, Liver Cancer
- Dana – Prostate Cancer
- Erika – Stage 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer
- Victoria – Caregiver
- Ashwini – Breast Cancer
- Miriam – Thyroid Cancer
The group joins our team of nearly 500 Support Volunteers already committed to providing peer mentoring for cancer patients and the people who love them. To connect with these, or one of our other volunteers, please call our Programs Team at 877-HOPENET (877.467.3638) or visit cancerhopenetwork.org.
By Suzanne Leger
