Having lymphoma can often change your perspective and priorities. Hear how Robin M. is finding new meaning in her life by providing support to others who have recently completed treatment.
Just as you might have sought help, comfort, and support from others who have gone through the lymphoma experience, you now have a new opportunity to give back and help others. It will help you feel good, build new friendships, and will widen your network of support.
You can start simple by speaking or visiting with someone who is newly diagnosed with lymphoma. Here are some ideas:
- Help someone find more information about his or her specific disease
- Help someone organize their health information to prepare them for upcoming doctor appointments
- Drive someone and/or be present their doctor’s appointments to offer support and help ask questions
- Share with someone who has a similar diagnosis about the treatment choices you made and your reasons for making them
- Bring a meal, run an errand, or do household chores for someone
You can also decide to help out at a support group. There are various lymphoma support groups that provide patients with an opportunity to meet with other patients and caregivers and talk about the impact of the diagnosis. These include the emotions and fears associated with lymphoma, its disruption to one’s life and family, concerns for the future, and strategies that patients might use to cope.
Follow this link to learn more about these support groups in your area.
You may also be interested in starting a support group of your own.
