| This is a time for love, compassion and empathy for Kate, William and their family. |
Will we hear apologies?
Will the armchair critics lift their game and think of the consequences of their comments?
Will a positive outcome be that more people will be less critical and more empathetic?
Prince William
• Lost Mother in a tragic accident
• Lost Grandmother and Grandfather
• Estranged brother
• His Father at 75 is dealing with cancer
• His wife at 42 is dealing with cancer
• Has 3 children under 11 to protect and raise
• Still trying to perform royal duties
Where does the Monarchy go from here?
A well-considered message from a Facebook friend who has also managed cancer
When I was 33 I was diagnosed with cancer. We had four young children at the time. We lived in a small town and it seemed everyone knew. We always told our children everything, even the possible outcomes, so “well meaning” people didn’t frighten or overwhelm them.
I wrote a book “things not to say to someone who has cancer” about my experience - no need to explain what it was about. One of the hardest things is managing others responses to the stories about cancer they have in their head, and managing your own experience mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally and psychologically without taking on others preconceived ideas or the cliches.
I never wanted to “fight” or “battle” cancer. In fact, I always kept the mindset that it was fighting me. I lived with my experience, and the treatment, teaching myself not to fear death or see it as a failure. I simply accepted all outcomes as possible and adjusted my expectations, whilst continuing to live my life. I didn’t “think positive thoughts” all the time. And I’m a better person now, with more courage, resilience and self-confidence than I had before I had cancer. I was a mental and psychological mess when it was over, because I now saw the world through fresh eyes, I was not grateful for the “lesson”, and my preconceived ideas that God protects us if we pray and only do good things was smashed to pieces.
I feel so deeply for Kate and Williams family right now. This must be so triggering in light of the losses they’ve experienced, and with Charles also managing his own cancer experience. It must be remembered though that cancer can be something we live with, it’s not necessarily something that leads you to a death outcome. It’s best to simply allow the person with cancer define what they’re going through in their own way. The pressure they must all be under just breaks my heart.
All in all seeing the reports on the media this morning has been deeply triggering for me. The potential for a permanent change to life, perhaps even leading to death, is not something easily forgotten. - Joann Southeren