I try not to focus on the struggle - I put on the bravest face I can find and I keep going. I used to think I could handle anything because I have to handle everything, but cancer changed that. The best advice I got was at the time of my diagnosis. The doctor told me to lean on my support people and to accept help. If it had not been "doctor's orders," it probably would not have occurred to me.
When I shared my diagnosis with my support people the response was so humbling. Everyone said some version of "please let me know if you need anything." I began to ask friends and neighbors for help with my daughter and realized we are so loved. Random little care packages arrived and were so cherished. I would remember too late it was trash day only to discover someone had already taken my bins to the curb. That feeling of community and connection helps me keep going. Being open to support from unexpected sources has been an exercise in trust, but well worth the challenge.
- Carina, Tony Foundation award recipient and Cancer warrior