Aloha,
When you’re told you have cancer, and then reminded that God doesn’t give you more than you can handle, it’s only natural to translate that to mean that God gave you cancer. Really? God is the reason my world has been turned upside down? And who doesn’t look back with sadness remembering all the loved ones who lost their battle with cancer? A tough journey ahead, indeed!
Once I was comfortable with others knowing I was sick, especially at work, people came out from everywhere to share their cancer stories. Fortunately for me, a friend and co-worker and two-time breast cancer survivor who just completed chemotherapy and radiation treatments happened into my office to say hi. God put her right where I needed her the day after my diagnosis. Nettie Lou was my first blessing. Everyday she stopped by to remind me to keep praying. “God listens,” she said.
People want to raise your spirit and give you hope. What became clear to me is that people of faith want to talk about their cancer journey in the context of their spirituality. On Oahu, you can find a cancer support group at just about every medical facility (Queen’s, Straub, Kuakini, Pali Momi, Kapiolani, etc.). Unfortunately, you are discouraged from discussing God and spirituality in these meetings.
No, God didn’t give me cancer. However, he continues to reveal his plan and purpose for me. Today, Holy Trinity Parish in Kuliouou, St. Damien Parish on Molokai and Christ the King Parish on Maui have organized Catholic cancer support ministries. On Saturday, Aug. 23, all cancer survivors, caregivers and those still on their cancer journey will gather at St. Stephen Diocesan Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All are encouraged to attend. Help us to help your faith community reach out to parishioners with cancer.
Call me at the Office for Social Ministry for more information at 203-6702.
Mahalo,
Iwie Tamashiro
Office for Social Ministry
