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Monday, January 28, 2013

The Day That Changed My Life - A Humiliating Journey


We all know that facing cancer and the challenges that comes with it can be overwhelming. The emotional toll and physical changes are indescribable. However, facing the journey is somewhat easier when you have a strong support system and a society that offers a great sense of awareness. Most of all, there is an important factor that means more to a cancer patient/survivor - respect and sensitivity.

This week we focus on the issues that needs to be addressed as it is important for all of us to understand that we should treat others the way we would want our loved ones or ourselves to be treated. After reading an article in the Huffington Post< and some of the insensitive comments, it has become clear that we have more work to do in the not just awareness but with work place training to handle these sensitive issues. Imagine what it is like having to travel and the humiliation of sharing a private matter in a public setting. Thomas Sawyer a bladder cancer survivor shares his journey with the Transit Security Administration. We acknowledge that security is very important and we expect the TSA to protect us. However, we hope that there are special provisions in place for people with special conditions. Thankfully, Mr. Sawyer's experience did not stop with just having an embarrassing moment, he decided to do something about it and he is now an advocate, speaking on behalf of patients rights.

While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.




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