Paying It Forward

Sandy Jessop

As our community grows, so does our group of neighbors who have been affected by cancer (survivors and co-survivors). Many people who have battled cancer in the past are questioning whether the Cancer Support Group (CSG) is right for them. Common statements/questions concerning the CSG, along with our responses, are:

“I had cancer so long ago, I barely think about it.”

No matter when you had cancer, you play a vital role in the CSG.

“I really don’t need support anymore because I’m cancer free!”

You may not feel the current need for support, but your knowledge and compassion can serve as a lifeline to other cancer patients and/or their loved ones.

“I wasn’t the cancer patient. I was [just] the caregiver. I don’t know if this group is right for me.”

Caregivers and other loved ones of those battling cancer, otherwise known as co-survivors, need support. Although they (you?) are an important part of the treatment plan, their needs are often missed in this confusing and exhausting process.

Starting immediately, we are compiling a formal list of anyone who would like to participate in providing care to our cancer community. Your assistance can take place in several capacities by providing:

* Meals

* Rides

* Grocery runs

* Friendly visits

* Medical assistance

You may already be providing assistance through the SBR Neighbors Helping Neighbors program and if you are, Thank You! The CSG will continue to work alongside this wonderful resource.

To become an “official” CSG helper, please send an email to [email protected] with the following information: name(s), email address, phone number, and helping capacity: meals, rides, grocery runs, friendly visits, and/or medical assistance.

If you are currently in or recovering from cancer treatments, please let us pay it forward by letting us help! Just send a message to Sandy Jessop at [email protected] to get started.

Whether you can use some help, or want to help others, we want to hear from you.