 When breast cancer happens to women you love, all you want to do is fix it and make it disappear. At least that is how I felt when Ann, my wife of 26 years was diagnosed in August 2007.
When she told me the news, my world went blank. Numbness set in, and I was momentarily speechless. From this point on, I found myself ill-prepared to support Ann. I wanted to know what to do and when to do it. While piles of information came Ann’s way, nothing was specifically targeted toward the caregiver, leaving me to figure it out the hard way. And, believe me, it was hard! This is a strange and troubling inconsistency since one in eight women is diagnosed with breast cancer, and each one needs support.
Determined that no others should feel as frustrated and alone at such a critical time, I’ve written a book called The P.I.N.K. Primer: For Partners In Need of Koaching. It is quick and easy guide for partners supporting a loved one through the various stages of breast cancer. Tips are offered in the following areas: telling others, selection of doctors, medical terminology, getting organized, plan of attack, managing the process, support systems, needed distractions, the ins and outs of surgery and chemotherapy, cooking, bumps in the road, hair loss, rehabilitation, and breast reconstruction.
Men basically don’t like to ask for help or admit they don’t know all the answers, but when dealing with the big BC, we do need help. So, if you, or someone else you know is battling breast cancer, don’t forget about the needs of the caregivers.
The book is available on Amazon.com. A significant portion of proceeds from the sale of the book are being donated to organizations supporting women touched by breast cancer. |
