Dear H4TG Friends,
At the end of the day when you look at what it takes to persevere through a breast cancer diagnosis, we know that it takes strength and determination that comes from within. But we also know that there are times when our women need the help of someone – a family member, a friend, or a colleague. As a community who comes together to support, it is important to not only recognize when someone needs help, but to know how to help, and often we are asked, “I want to help, but how?”
You can start by simply asking – find out, from them, what is needed. They may need a ride to an appointment, or a meal prep plan, or possibly, an objective perspective that offers clarity for them to move forward.
Often it is as simple as listening with your heart and understanding that you cannot always ‘fix’ what is going on. Create the space for them to share what is on their mind - what fears are they facing that day or, what milestone or accomplishment they want to celebrate at that moment. Listening with an open heart creates trust and understanding by sending the message that they are not alone.
Perseverance, if successful, is not done alone. Coming together as an H4TG community brings with it strength and determination. When we start by first being aware that there is a need, then acting on what that need is, and finally extending our help with unconditional kindness, together we are helping one person at a time to persevere.
Helping does not always mean having to do something big or life changing. Often, it’s the smallest acts of kindness that can have the most impact. Thank you for being “here for the girls” – together we can all make a difference.Healthy
Hugs,
Chris Schwab, Executive Director
"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." - Leo Buscaglia