Facing Cancer Together - Softcover

Brown, Pamela N.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0806638338 ISBN 13: 9780806638331

Publisher: Fortress Press, 1999

Synopsis

You hear that a friend has cancer. You want to help, but you're not entirely sure how. Pamela Brown, a cancer survivor, suggests the many ways you can help by your words and actions. In addition to a wealth of practical suggestions, Facing Cancer Together includes entries from the author's journals, as well as Bible readings and prayers to share for support and comfort.

About this title

About the Author

Pamela N. Brown, a cancer survivor, works as a freelance writer and fitness specialist in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she leads a cancer support group.

Excerpt. © Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.

"Over the past several years, my wife and I have been encouraging cancer patients and amputees through Outreach of Hope, an organization we rated as a result of my cancer diagnosis and ultimate amputation of my left arm and shoulder. Through this ministry, we have been privileged to meet wonderful people. Although many struggle tremendously, their lives continue to express their love for God, the offer of strength he provides and, remarkable, their desire to help others who are struggling, too.

"One of these individuals I have had the privilege of meeting is Pam Brown, the author of this book. Pam has been there. She understands in a real and personal way the journey of cancer and what it takes to accompany a hurting friend or family member. Her personal experiences and work with a cancer support group she started in Colorado Springs makes her more credible than most professionals.

"Beyond all this, the one thing that impressed me most about Pam is the simple fact that she has a desire to use her experience with cancer to reach out and encourage others. I believe she is living out what Paul speaks of in 2 Corinthians 1:3-5:

'Praise be to God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.'

"Pamela's desire is to comfort and encourage in the same way she received that comfort and encouragement from our heavenly Father.

"There's a wonderful passage in the Bible where we are encouraged to love with actions and in truth. Through Facing Cancer Together, Pam challenges us to do just that. Encouragement is not for just a few, but for all of us. As you read this book, may you be challenged to be an "encourager." When we are in the valley battling cancer or any other adversity, it is so comforting to know that someone cares. My prayer is that you are the one who cares." ---David Dravecky President, Outreach of Hope Retired Pitcher, San Diego Padres and San Francisco Giants from the Foreword

"On October 18, 1995, I was told I had a large mass in my chest, a lymphoma. After a biopsy, the pathologist determined it was Hodgkin's Disease. I knew very little about Hodgkin's Disease, or cancer for that matter.

" I was thirty-sic years old, healthy, and fit. In fact, I dedicated most of my adult life to keeping myself and others physically fit. I have a university degree in nutrition and am certified as a health fitness instructor. It was my profession and had been for sixteen years. Now my body was being invaded by disease---and not just any disease, but cancer.

"This book tells my personal story, gives practical suggestions of support during each phase of a battle with cancer, and it encourages a fighting spirit. It also is about how my family and friends were gifts of God who helped me heal. There is great healing power in care. Being a caregiver, a source of support, and a friend during adversity is not an easy task. It also requires you to bear a heavy load. Unfortunately, we often feel inadequate to do the job and retreat when we are needed the most. This book offers specific ideas on how you can help a friend or loved one at each stage of the illness.

"I've included excerpts from my journal in hope of giving you some idea of what your friend may be feeling at each stage. Every person has different needs and reactions, but I believe this book will enable you to relate on a more personal level. I have used the term friend throughout the book for clarity and ease. Whether they be a brother, sister, father, mother, daughter, grandparent, or cousin, I know they also are your friend.

"Count it as a privilege that you have the opportunity to help your friend during one of life's darkest moments. You can inspire and influence with love, hope, understanding, compassion, and a positive persistent attitude. Find the special qualities within yourself and discover the difference it makes in others lives when you share those gifts. Do this and no matter what the outcome, you will be helping your friend, loved one, and yourself.

"Remember that all acts of kindness are helpful. But your friend is in for the gift of his or her life against a very formidable enemy. There are many things you can do, as family and friends, to really make a difference. God bless you for sharing the burden! ---from the Introduction

Edition details

• Publisher: Fortress Press
• Publication date: 1999
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0806638338
• ISBN 13: 9780806638331
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 96