I've worked in cancer clinics. There are many stories, even with small children, who went to get second opinions after given a three, six, year to live, and became cancer free.
However, when told what you were told, how can one not worry?
There are many places to find hope and refreshment outside of P4P, and also real TLC. There may be some ladies who specialize in giving TLC and healing to those in need... I've met them. But why not choose to be around people who've been there, are there, and are finding hope in similar situations?
When I was a church goer, I remember cancer was a big ailment I've seen, as well as heart problems, surgery, etc. One thing I noticed, since that was my initial exposure to knowing people step by step through the process, was that they still had peace and joy through the process. A lady I still know today had heart surgery, and wasn't even scared. A few passed away, but I watched them continue to be strong with a twinkle in their eye. I saw people gather around and cook them meals, keep them company, encourage them, clean their house, etc etc. They were known to be very strong, and it really affected and prepared me for some things I have encountered since, including an injury that kept me in bed for over a year. My grand parents were actually worried about me because I still had a zest for life, and a passion for purpose. I still laughed, I still cracked jokes, I still pissed people off, and it still sang my songs.
Did it suck? Yes. Was it devastating? Yes. Was it lonely? Yes. But I'm glad I had great people who had surrounded me in the past to show me how to live, though it seemed life had stopped.
The church reference always gets an eye roll, but that was the majority of my adult life, and where I learned a lot about how to live it. Through work and other means, I watched people have a glow in their face through their struggle, but you could still tell they didn't feel well.
The example of others in the past and present is always a gem I will keep with me - and to this day, I try to surround myself with people who know how to cling to hope. I also try to be an example of hope to those who struggle by being an example in my own struggles. I fail miserably sometimes though lol.
All that to say, maybe there are some organizations where people of similar struggles go out and do stuff together and encourage one another. Every now and then knowing you're not alone really helps. Perhaps you can be that person for others, and fight the battle and win. No one knows your destiny for sure, so go get that second opinion. It's worth it.
