Dear Sissy,
My heart goes out to you. I'm thinking of you sitting with so many overwhelming things all through this long weekend and, if I could, I would put my arms around you right now. I am a breast cancer survivor of 5+ years and I have a very dear and close older friend who has survived lung cancer, twice, within the past 7 years. I remember, the first time, before my breast cancer.....I called her not knowing what to say and I'll never forget what she told me: "This is just a blip on the screen of life." I went with her for chemo several times, and she never lost that attitude. Although I found it hard to believe, she maintained that belief and, when I was diagnosed, I borrowed it from her. I know Colleen here is smiling and nodding as she reads this. I have so many stories, but they can wait.
Your sister's situation is, understandably, completely overwhelming for her, for you, and for everyone whose lives connect with both of you. Colleen is right, I've heard nothing but good things about the cancer centers you mention, and a second opinion can often be a good thing. We go through so many stages on the cancer journey and, although fear can be the most difficult, we do not have to do it alone. I live in Ottawa, and we have an amazing psycho-social program at our centres which helps the cancer patient in so many ways from pastoral care to financial counseling, and so much more. Your sister will undoubtedly be able to take advantage of similar programs. There is support for caregivers, too, and I think if you ask the professionals here, they may be able to provide you with information about peer support for yourself. You have a lot on your plate right now with three small children, a business to run, and helping your sister, too. It is more important than ever that you take care of yourself right now. If you have faith in a higher power, this is the time to lean on that faith. Reach out, to those who can help you, and to those of us here who have experienced the cancer journey ourselves and with others. We will always be here to listen to you. We understand, and you matter to us.
You're in my thoughts and prayers, Sissy, and I'll be checking in here to see how your sister is doing and how you're coping.
((hugs))
Heather