Vim & Vigor - Summer 2011 - Community Healthcare - (Page 38)

HEROES You don’t have to be the primary caregiver to make a di erence in the life of someone with cancer Some things you just have to face on your own. But cancer isn’t one of them. ortunately, for the 11.4 million people in the U.S. with a history of cancer, caregivers are likely standing by them. For most cancer patients, this caregiver is their rock— the one person who goes to every doctor visit and manages their medicines, meals and schedule with equal parts compassion and precision. But even cancer caregivers need a hand every now and then. And having a support system is actually healthy for them and the person they care for. “Studies have shown that both cancer patients and caregivers who are socially isolated don’t do as well as those who have the social support behind them, even if they don’t feel they need it,” says Kimberly Stump-Sutliff, R.N., an American Cancer Society spokeswoman. When it comes down to the nuts and bolts of helping someone through cancer—and bolstering the caregiver—it’s no surprise there are plenty of parts to play. But what may be unexpected is just who steps up to ﬁll them. “I’ve had people with cancer tell me they were shocked to discover who ended up being there for them. It’s not always who you’d expect,” Stump-Sutliff says. “Your best friend may not be able to deal with it because she lost her mother to cancer last year, but your co-worker may turn out to be a primary supporter.” This means that you could end up coming through for someone, even if you never pictured yourself in that role. Here are four key roles you can play to make a difference in the life of someone who has cancer and in the life of the caregiver. UNEXPECTED PHOTOGRAPH BY GINO SANTA MARIA /VEER 38 Vim & Vigor · SUM M ER 2 011

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Vim & Vigor - Summer 2011 - Community Healthcare

Vim & Vigor - Summer 2011 - Community Healthcare
Contents
Community Message
When Stroke Strikes, Seconds Count
Rays of Hope Fight Cancer
Girl Talk
Say What?
Action Plan
Like This? Try That!
Being George Clooney
A Day in the Life of Your Heart
Unexpected Heroes
Get in Gear
A Real Lifesaver
A Real Lifesaver
Spotlight on Community Hospital
Spotlight on St. Catherine Hospital
Spotlight on St. Mary Medical Center
A Safer Hospital Stay

Vim & Vigor - Summer 2011 - Community Healthcare