We receive numerous phone calls from those who are newly diagnosed with cancer, their families and friends. Usually, we find ourselves talking at great lengths with them. We try to allay their hopelessness about the disease. We offer them information and resources. We often send them pertinent cancer literature that is relevant to their struggle. However, of all the things we offer, something towers above the rest – the offer to link them to someone who has survived the battle they are about to begin. All of a sudden, the voice on the phone that sounds dejected and afraid, magically sounds energized. It rises with renewed optimism as if it is has just received a promise of hope.
Hope. That is what this book delivers to those who are victimized by cancer. You are not alone. Others have gone through this path and they are surviving. You can too. Restore your power of positive connection. Get in touch with cancer survivors who have a great deal to share with you. Let them lend you their ears and hearts. In coming together, there is hope that all will be well. That glimmer of hope speaks volumes to your endurance of cancer and your survivorship.
The Roster of Hope is a directory of African American cancer survivors. These survivors gave consent to have their names on the Quilt of Hope as well as the Roster of Hope
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