CPSP2023 Charter Newsletter, Winter 2023
Founder’s Note …
There are really no words to describe how I felt when I first heard the sounds of ‘stage-4 cancer’ spoken to me, let alone its meaning, plus, the unknown phases of recovery ahead. Suffice it to say, there’s nothing like hearing ‘stage 4 cancer’ that wakes someone up; and I think you know what I mean. After a bit of reflecting (okay, maybe two to three months of reflecting!), I have come to terms with it. Moreover, i’ve come to see that ‘stage 4’ is a true ‘cancer opportunity’. At this point, I am wide awake for good—figuratively and literally.
My aim is to use this cancer opportunity to better the lives of my fellow-cancer sojourners, as many patients and survivors as possible (for good)! Because cancer is such a debilitating as well as an ‘expensive’ disease, I’ve been reflecting on all the what if’s. This is what I’ve come up with so far:
1) a ‘Vendors’ program—to partner with different service providers and vendors to help maximize savings and ease your cancer-recovery journey. For instance, to have daily needs met as nutritiously and inexpensively as possible, such as organic meats or produce delivered to you via online shopping at discounted cost for at least 3 months. So that dollars saved can be used on other expenses, like those boxes of Ensure that we’re all familiar with!
2) a ‘Cancer Walkers’ program—to have a group of ‘cancer cohorts’ in your city or town (again, figuratively and literally) to walk with you! To help get you ready for that ‘5k walk for cancer’ that you’ve been thinking about for so long!
3) a ‘Healing Methods’ program—-to have you get more knowledgeable about the different kinds of healing methods that are accessible for self care, such as massages, tai chi and yoga, to aid your recovery!
4) a ‘Gather for Healthy Eating’ program—to come together, virtually as well as in-person, to cook and share ways to eat for a speedier recovery!
5) an ‘OPC’ (online pastoral care) program—to build your cancer knowledge and spirituality, through online one-on-one and group settings with a trained pastoral-care provider and chaplain-in-training to discuss your cancer needs in a safe environment; plus, to get some relevant referrals if needed!
These programs are all in their various stages of development—please stay tuned! More information will be shared in the spring newsletter, or be sent to you via email. I am deeply honored and very blessed to have this cancer opportunity to serve you and your loved ones! Stay well! Vivien
