Losing My Dad To Cancer
My families life changed forever when I was in my late teens. I lost my beloved Dad to cancer. His name was Kevin, he was 56 and he died from
Non Hodgkins Lymphoma.
Back then, cancer research was very much underway. However, there was still a significant lack of information on it and not the family support that there is today. Cancer was known as 'The Big C'. We didn't dare say it's name and we certainly didn't discuss it.
I believe that this is what lead me, to be an advocate for talking openly about cancer and other critial illnesses. Raising awareness helps to highlight signs and symptoms and an early diagnosis is paramount to a full recovery.
Having been on the sideline so many times, I am in a position to offer advise to those who also find themselves in that same uncertain place. There are many ways in which you can play a part in supporting family members or friends who need it. Acknowledging it and talking about it is first and foremost!
Friends & Family Dealing with Critical Illnesses
Since my own fathers death, I have had several friends and other family members who have had to deal with similar life altering changes. Not just by cancer, but kidney failure, brain tumours, heart disorders & mental health issues.
As a result, in 2022, I became a living kidney donor for my sister in law.
One thing all of these people have had in common,is not just losing a bodily part or function, but not losing their sense of humour and their ability to poke fun at the one thing that had turned their lives upside down.
"Critical illnesses are not funny, but every time you find laughter in a difficult situation, you win.....if even for just that moment"
❤️