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mgndam1603's avatar
mgndam1603
Member
12 years ago

A helping hand

Yesterday after work I called into my local supermarket to collect a few things and had a mind full of what I needed and what I had to do next, as I walked around the corner of an aisle I came face to face with a lady that looked just like I did a year ago.

She had on a lovely blue headscarf and was that deathly colour of grey with no definition to her face, I smiled and walked on. As I passed her by I stopped myself and turned back to talk to her.

Never in my life before have I been so intrusive to a stranger, but I introduced myself and asked was she a breast cancer patient to which she replied yes. I explained that I was too and chatted with her for some time. It turns out she has the same surgeon and oncologist as me. Anyway I discovered that she is not a member of BCNA or any support group and has been doing it on her own.

So I provided details as to this forum, explained that we have a group in our area that meets regularily and gave her my email if she wants someone to be in touch with.

As I was readying to leave she grabbed my hand and thanked me profusely for stopping and talking with her, that she has had no-one that understood her situation.

I went home feeling a little teary as it bought back so many memories but I felt good to have helped this lady out even in a small way.

Its amazing the power of talk and touch on another human being.

 

inspiration

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  • mum2jj's avatar
    mum2jj
    Member
    12 years ago

    Often we spend so much time wondering if something is the right thing to do or not and by the time we decide the moment has passed. Sometimes acting on impulse is refreshing. What's the worst that could have happened. She could thank you, walk away and never contact you. It sounds like you really helped someone in the time of need. As my mother would say, that's how people looked after each other in the olden days!!!

    Well done you. Paula xx

  • NaturalBel's avatar
    NaturalBel
    Member
    12 years ago

    I wish people had have reached out to me to have made me feel better.  Mind you, I didnt go into a supermarket until I finished Chemo.  I didnt want the chance to catch the germs. (ok I know, a bit extreme.  Well I waited until the third week).

    I have a couple of ladies who come into work at Legana Amcal Pharmacy, and I now have the BCNA Donation Tin and pamphlets on our counter.  I am waiting for someone to notice it!

    I know that it is better to approach people out of work hours, in work hours, they will need to approach me.

    In this siutaion, I think you did a brilliant job.  You are wonderful.  Love from Bel