Strong Women Share Stories
I recently received an email from a woman named Mary that reminded me how heavy the load is for so many caregivers and what commitment and strength it takes to give and give and give:
“Hi Pat,
I received the book I think on Friday. Thank you so much for mailing it to me.
When I met you, one of my brothers was in the hospital in Omaha and so many things that you said pertained to my HD [Huntington’s Disease] husband but also to my brother. Then my other brother went into the hospital with what he thought was a bad cough and trouble swallowing. Unfortunately he has lung cancer, lymph nodes between his lungs are affected and we’re waiting to hear if he has pancreatic cancer.
I carry your book Comfort and Be comforted with me and as my family said things I found things to read. Next weekend I will visit my other brother who is still in the hospital in Omaha and will carry “my book” with me.
Thank you for the help you didn’t know that you were giving. HD is first and foremost in my life but my brothers are so important to me. Now I deal with HD, Congestive Heart Failure and Cancer in three very important men in my life. I am so grateful that my two sons are healthy. I read, take anti-depressants and see a Therapist. You are a strong woman and you have passed that onto me.”
Though Mary calls me strong, it is clear she is remarkably strong herself. I know I gained strength from her words, and I am glad that my stories and words of encouragement added to her strength. This is how we stay strong–by sharing our stories, our commitment, and words of encouragement.
Tell your story and offer encouraging words to someone today to give them hope and strength. To strengthen yourself, ask someone to tell you how they found strength when they felt they had very little. Or read from an inspiring book. Let the power of stories support you.
Posted: January 2nd, 2009 under Caregiving, Peace of Mind, Life Lessons.
Comments: none