“Piglet sidled up to Pooh from behind.
“Pooh!” he whispered.
“Yes, Piglet?”
“Nothing,” said Piglet, taking Pooh’s paw. “I just wanted to be sure of you.”
― A.A. Milne, The House at Pooh Corner

We all need reassurance at some time or other, especially when we’re trekking down  an unknown pathway into a serious headwind, venturing into new territory, experiencing something in life that is challenging and scary.

Having someone walk with you – someone you can be sure of – who can give you a hug, a pat on the back, or take your hand, can be comforting and affirming when everything is uncertain.

I’ve written before about the value of peer support for those diagnosed with breast cancer – that is, support given by others who have been there too, who have made the journey, come out the other side, and can share their experience with you when you need it the most.

It’s reassuring to talk to someone who ‘gets it’. There is no need to explain, or start from scratch. It’s OK to cry, or laugh, scream and holler, because that person has done it too, and it’s normal.  When others who haven’t made the journey you’re on just don’t understand, that person does – and what a relief it can be.

If you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer and need someone to talk to, you can speak with the women at Breast Cancer Support. It doesn’t matter where you are, or where you’re at with your cancer, they can help. You can even have an online cuppa at one of their Cuppa and a Chat group meetings on Zoom.

There’s nothing wrong with needing some reassurance now and then.

It’s good to let someone else carry the back pack for a while.

From guest blogger Jane Bissell. Jane is an Auckland-based writer and life writing workshop facilitator, www.janebissellwriting.com