In 1992, I attended my first national meeting of the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, the oldest national organization by and for survivors. Spontaneous conversations with co-survivors during breaks and meals complemented the polished presentations of speakers in plenary sessions and workshops.
One story has stood out all these years. I'm not sure who said it, but in the context of explaining the work of survivors at the NCCS a veteran survivor described a person with one hand reaching up in the air and the other hand reaching down toward the ground.
The first hand is reaching out, asking for and accepting guidance and support from others who are further along their survivorship journeys. And the second hand is reaching out to help someone else. Ever since, this image of a Healthy Survivor has helped me get good care and live fully.
The balance between offering and asking for help is constantly shifting over time. But rare are the moments that a Healthy Survivor can't benefit from someone's else's experiences and insights. Just as rare are the times a Healthy Survivor can't offer something to someone else - a few words of encouragement or a hug.
Paradoxically, Healthy Survivors often help others by reaching out for help. Their willingness to express their emotions when disappointed or grieving makes it easier for people who are hurting but have been afraid to cry. Demonstrating acceptance, courage, humor or fortitude while working through personal difficulties helps others nourish hope of a better tomorrow.
Comments