Communities›Mental Health and Mindfulness›What does it feel like in a cancer center waiting room?

What does it feel like in a cancer center waiting room?

RR

Community Member

24 days ago

Sitting in the waiting room at the cancer center waiting to be called. I look around the room at the people sitting and waiting for their turn.Different ages different races. But the one thing in common, “Cancer” Some for treatments some for follow up appointments. Everyone in different stages and phases but the one common thread “cancer”. Some are sending text messages, some are watching YouTube videos on their phones. There is a silent heaviness that fills the room. At one point, that room full of quiet, total strangers broke out into a collective applaud as one of the patients rang the bell. (A milestone in the cancer journey) For that one moment you saw the smiles from everyone, knowing the significance of that simple act. 🙏 God bless! “Don’t Let The Bad Days Win!”

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24 comments
Comment
CA

Community Member

24 days ago

Cancer center waiting rooms carry a unique atmosphere where hope and uncertainty sit side by side, filled with people united by shared experiences while navigating their individual journeys. The moment when someone rings that milestone bell truly captures how these spaces can transform into places of celebration and collective strength, reminding everyone present that progress and victories happen every day in the fight against cancer.

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JD

Community Member

21 days ago

I love this post! So very true!

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TO

Community Member

21 days ago

Dear Richard R, I hope everything went well for you the other day my friend.. Sounds like a great place to have a little prayer session.. One Our Father from as many people as you can get would be a blessing in its self..🙏 God Bless Thomas O

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RR

Community Member

19 days ago

I’m very pleased to announce that my Ck up went well! ..Still on the mend!💪

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JG

Community Member

19 days ago

God is great! 😊

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SP

Community Member

19 days ago

Every time I go for treatment I sit in waiting room sobbing. I.look around and im the only one. Coming to acceptance takes a while.

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JG

Community Member

19 days ago

Don’t give up 😌

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RR

Community Member

19 days ago

Sherri P, that feeling is very stressful and we have all experienced it. Having confidence in your team, talking with god, and the determination to win are all positive forces towards your recovery. The littlest bit of progress is still progress! “Don’t Let The Bad Days Win!” 💪

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SP

Community Member

19 days ago

Thank you for the love. I'm definitely not going to give up. Brooklyn 💪

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MJ

Community Member

19 days ago

Do myeloma patients ever get to ring a bell?

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RR

Community Member

17 days ago

Hi! Marsha, in most cases yes, but it also depends on the hospitals policy.

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JD

Community Member

16 days ago

So glad you had a good checkup Richard. My bloodwork and exam went well this month with my tumor markers decreasing ! It’s a good feeling! Praise God. Just got to Hydrate more. lol It’s a struggle for me! Have faith in God everyone to see you through!

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RR

Community Member

16 days ago

Congratulations Jane! That’s great to hear. One thing that helped me when I was going through treatments was, going to the infusion center for extra hydration, between treatments. The head nurse recommended it. No appointment needed just show up. 🙏 I hope this helps!

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JD

Community Member

16 days ago

Really. I will investigate that option! Many thanks Richard. Have a great day!

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LH

Community Member

13 days ago

Ty my first visit a lady rang the bell..i was oblivious..i looked up everyone was clapping im a joiner so I clapped so it took a.few minutes to register.

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RR

Community Member

12 days ago

Hi Linda! Our first visit is frightful, our last is a Celebration 🎉 Prayers for all 🙏

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JH

Community Member

12 days ago

God bless you

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LB

Community Member

12 days ago

I just finished 5 once a week radiation sessions for prostate cancer. Each time while waiting in the dressing area I was around men, young and old, some there for daily treatment. My heart goes out to these guys who are fighting something far worse than me and I pray their outcomes are very positive and that the Lord gives them strength to endure

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RR

Community Member

12 days ago

Hi Larry! Yes we can all relate to what other cancer patients are going through. I had 35 radiation treatments, one ever day and 7 chemo 😰 As we all know regardless of the number more or less, it definitely takes its toll. I live with gratitude every day, because I know that there are people suffering from this disease and have had it worse than me. My last two check ups came back clean, so needless to say I feel fortunate and blessed. I know that my life has been forever changed, and I have excepted that. I appreciate every new day and try to make the best of the time I am given. 🙏 Living With Gratitude🙏 Good Luck on your journey. “Don’t Let The Bad Days Win!”

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KC

Community Member

12 days ago

I went through everything you just mentioned. I met some strong courageous people going through their journey all alone. We were bonded by Cancer but we are determined to be stronger when we all ring the bell or hit the gong. #Staystrong sending prayers and healing for all.

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MI

Community Member

12 days ago

I have had two former types. First one was Small Cell Carcinoma. That was 40 radiator treatment and 8 3 day chemo treatments. The second was breast cancer. Mastectomy and oral chemo for a month, the 5 years of anti estrogen pills. Now I a completely different lung cancer, squamous Cell. I am looking at radiation again. I have never gotten to ring any bells. My first and second oncologists didn't believe in them. They don't know the significance the bell has to the patient that has finished and the hope it instill in those who still are fighting. I have the same oncologist I had with the breast cancer. So my husband said he will buy me a bell! I say this to all, keep up the fight! I tell folks God's not ready for me and Satan doesn't want me! Carry on Warriers!

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SP

Community Member

12 days ago

My first breast cancer 10 years ago I never rang the bell. I will never get that chance this time eithet

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TS

Community Member

12 days ago

Sheri p, you are not the only one sobbing. I am also.

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EH

Community Member

10 days ago

To those sitting in the waiting room alone, my heart goes out to you. I have been blessed with a number of family and friends who've gone with me. I've never waited alone. My recommendation is to reach out to your circle of family and friends to see if any are willing to go with you. I've had great conversation with these people and really appreciated the second set of ears as well as some to remember any questions that need to be asked.

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