The Kindness of Strangers
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.— 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Greg and I have been deeply blessed by the support of church members since I was diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2024. I’m not surprised, because our caring congregation reaches out to help others in need, but I am profoundly grateful.
I have, however, been surprised by the kindness of strangers.
From the early uncertain days to now, the busy health care professionals at the Van Elslander Cancer and Liggett Breast Cancer centers have been patient and kind with me as I muddled through diagnosis, surgeries, radiation, and what comes next.
The 33 rounds of radiation did not fly by, as someone promised. But they were more bearable thanks to the anonymous knitters of Knit Michigan, who donate beautiful hats to breast cancer patients, and other kind souls who offered coloring books, snacks, and journals.
The most unexpected blessing has been the community of fellow radiation travelers who filled the appointments around my 12:30 PM time slot. Through radiation tattoos, burns, exhaustion, and lymphedema, we propped each other up and looked for reasons to smile. When one of us got to ring the bell and end radiation, the rest of us showed up to celebrate.
Once strangers in a waiting area, we have a text chain and continue to celebrate both big and small things in our lives.
Prayer: Thank you for the food I eat, the air I breathe, and the quiet moments of joy that make up my day. Teach me to recognize your work in the small things and to respond with genuine gratitude. Amen.
Kathy Gardner
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❤️
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