"Many studies have found that cancer survivors with strong emotional support tend to better adjust to the changes cancer brings to their lives, have a more positive outlook, and often report a better quality of life. Research has shown that people with cancer need support from friends. You can make a big difference in the life of someone with cancer" (American Cancer Society, “How to Be a Friend to Someone With Cancer”, Jan. 2016).

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I lost a great friend and mentor last year to pancreatic cancer. However, even though my friend, Ralph Hardy, is no longer here on earth, I still carry our friendship in my heart. Daily, I strive to honor his legacy by living out his words of wisdom and celebrate Ralph's life by passing along the friendship he gave me to others.

One of the major benefits of being an extrovert is that people – especially family, friends and close colleagues – generally give me internal joy and kindred stimulation. In my opinion, there is nothing in this world that can replace beloved family members and good friends sitting at your dinner table, breaking bread, and enjoying wholesome conversation about each other’s lives.

And now…especially now…as I fight against cancer, family and friends have proven to be an integral part of my holistic therapeutic care. Hands down!  

I am truly a blessed man. For I have, on many occasions, heard these generous words: “Alex, what can I do for you and Teresa?”

The greatest gift that you can give us is your friendship, prayers and heartfelt encouraging words.

However, there are some who want to do more, and to be right there by my side. 

I can still remember during my first bout with cancer in 2013, those who drove me to the Virginia Cancer Infusion Center, and sat with me while chemo pumped into my arm: Bob, Yvette, LaTonya, Chuck, Kim, Ralph, Amy, and others, especially my loving wife, Teresa. For some, I could tell it was uneasy for them to watch me go through the treatment. But they knew by being there, their presence motivated me to fight harder and to endure the difficult treatment.

For those who do want to help, I've created a 'Sign-up' form on Google Drive. Just click here or copy the following URL link and paste it into your web browser. Then, fill out the online form to let Teresa know how you’d like to support us.

'Sign-up' form link: 

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1PmGEsjqfj2ftQkaW8TvoegUNHeov3LL0eDlMewVtHoQ/edit?usp=sharing

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Also, I have found helpful information on how to be a friend to someone who has cancer:

Articles:

• “Supporting a Friend Who Has Cancer” (Cancer.net)
• “How to Be a Friend to Someone With Cancer” (American Cancer Society)
  • Printable pamphlet here.

Video:

• "The Silver Lining: How To Be a Friend to Someone Who Has Cancer" (TheSilverPen.com)

As always, thank you for the greatest gift that a cancer patient can have: your friendship!

ajh