A week ago, I was checking email when I found one from my sister. I hadn't had much contact with her since a falling out early last Spring. The email was brief but the message hit me so very hard. She has been diagnosed with cancer. They are in a hurry to start Chemo this Friday.
I really didn't want to believe it. I guess no one does. When I was young I met a friend who had cancer, she fought it and made it. I was really to young to know what it all meant. I pretty much knew she was in or at the hospital a lot. In middle school, I had a teacher go through it. Was not really a favorite teacher, so I knew it was happening but really didn't focus on it. I've had friends along the way who knew people. It's not that I don't know. It was never my family. It was always someone elses . . .
I've called and emailed my sister in the past week. It's just such a helpless feeling to be so far and know that she has a fight ahead of her. I'm not a neighbor that can cook a dinner for them. I can't be there for appointments and be with her through the tough days. We can call and cry but I can't hug her. I can't say it's going to be alright because we both know that no one knows that right now. All the prayers still seem like such a small thing to do.
I know a lot of you have been through or touched by cancer (I hate that word). Is there something someone done that was healpful. Is there anything to give that helps? I'm just at a complete loss. Our family communication truly sucks. My parents haven't called yet. I'm just really having a tough day and want to do something but what? Maybe some of you that have been in this situation can give ideas, suggestion.
Thank you for listening. (reading)
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Comments: 26
What type of cancer does your sister have?
Just let your sister know you love her and care about her, if she is a believer that you are praying for her. Medications have came a long way since my mother had cancer, and it does depend on the kind of cancer she has. There is hope in God that she can beat this.
Cancer is an ugly disease for sure and effects so many. You are both in my prayers.
Blessings
Listen.
Your sister's personality will determine what you should do.
I wish you both the best.
Help me get a publishing deal with a 10 rating and comment. I comment back.
Someone sent me a care package that I really used when I was going through chemo. It has a silk/sateen pillowcase, (because cotton is just too harsh on your hair), Blistex because your lips tend to dry out, some photos of our times together, and a few books about healing and hope. I am sure that there was more in it, but those are the things that stand out now.
I will be thinking of your sister and your family:)
My heart goes out to those of you that have been through this and currently are. Prayers are going up for all of you too.
Hope for the best, and support her in every way you can.
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I understand why this hit you hard. In the end, the reasons you lose touch do not matter anymore. Nothing is worth your relationship.
Do whatever you can. Send her a card, a book, a photo. Save for a short trip, flights can be really cheap if you buy ahead. (I went somewhere recently for $99 round trip.)
Just saying you care can mean so much.
I know a few people (one in my family) who made it through cancer.
Crazy Sexy Cancer is a great book to share, and read yourself.
Overall, hang in there, she knows you love her & loves you also.
Cause its the gift that lives and lives
so give the gift you know can't fail
more Gather points and a Gift on sale! LOL!!!!
I was just sitting here with my coffee thinking about the situation. I can't help but wonder if this is the opportunity to re-establish connection with your sister. It's one positive and proactive step you can take. Who knows, maybe the whole family will begin to reconnect again.
Do keep us posted.
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