healthy mind
LEAN ON ME
I
By Chivon John - www.chivonjohn.com
n 2012, when recording artist, Kathy Phillips, found out she had cancer, she made a bold decision to take her fight public and use her voice to educate women on the importance of early detection. Since August 2012, Kathy has given a candid behind the scenes account of her most vulnerable moments from patient to survivor and she has done it with a smile. Throughout the process, she’s also heightened awareness on the power of caregivers, having a positive outlook, and supporting patients. “Seeing my mom pass away from cancer changed my life,” says Phillips, as she reflected on her own diagnosis. “I spent a lot of time in the Palliative Care Clinic where my mom spent her last few months, and I got to witness first hand how a negative attitude can impact the patient but also the caregiver, too.” When a loved one has been recently diagnosed or is living with cancer, it is often difficult to know how to step up and support them through the challenging times ahead. Although there is no rulebook when it comes to supporting a friend, here are a few words of wisdom from Kathy on how to be a shoulder to lean on: Be patient “Being patient is one of the most important ways you can help someone with their recovery. Remember that they’re going through a tough time digesting the news, dealing with their treatment and recovering from the surgery. Even the simplest things may seem overwhelming at first.”
Reach out to connect Don’t be afraid to reach out to check-in or make plans for the future. Kathy recommends the book, Cancer is a Word, not a Sentence as an excellent tool to help understand patient treatment and what to expect during the process. “Having cancer can make you feel alienated so always reach out,” says Phillips.
Create a support system Providing a solid support system for your loved one will help reassure them that they are not alone. “Don’t ask insensitive questions such as “So, when do you lose your hair?” If you’re not sure how to help, ask. Replenish your energy If you are a Caregiver, find time to meet with friends and have your own support system in place to help you through the journey. It’s a tough job to take on and as much as the patient needs the support, so do you.
AD inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
7
