JOIN ME in giving back on #GivingTuesday™. On Tuesday, November 30, 2021, people from all over the world will come together for one purpose: to celebrate generosity and to give.
Why do I give?
The tragic thing about cancer is that it often feels like we are robbed of so much… time, finances, pre-cancer identity, hopes and dreams, and a sense of peace. When my husband was diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer, my world was suddenly turned upside down. I felt I had lost so much. I have grieved the loss of the person that I was before that day, the loss of the job and career that I intentionally chose to leave, and the loss of hopes and dreams. For those whose lives are touched by neuroendocrine cancer, the pain and grief can be unspeakable at times.
And yet, while I may have lost many things, I have also gained so much. It is through the loss and pain that a new life has sprouted. I have been blessed with a new perspective, a new appreciation for life, new friends and community, and deeper connections with family and old friends.
During these past couple of years, there have been certain moments that will forever be etched in my memory… When I felt alone, anxious, or desperate for help, these act of kindness made an indelible mark on my soul:
An acquaintance who dropped off flowers, food, or fresh produce from the farmer’s market.
A friend who sat beside me while I waited for my husband to come out of surgery.
A stranger who took the time to share his own experience with the treatment we would soon undergo.
A doctor who extended kindness and took the time to listen.
I remember all those moments. They are a balm to my soul. It is because of those moments that I want to give back.
I give because I want to pay it forward.
I give because I see the need for others to experience that kindness.
I give because I want to make an impact for myself, my zebra, and for other zebras.
I give because I want to inspire hope.
I invite you to contribute to our Vision supporting neuroendocrine (NET) cancer patients and their loved ones. With your help, LACNETS will be able to provide its programs free of charge to those whose lives have been affected by neuroendocrine cancer.
This annual initiative in memory of Giovanna Joyce Imbesi, late founder of LACNETS, whose vision was to empower NET patients and caregivers by providing a healing exchange of educational resources and emotional support so they may learn to live richly and fully.
Large or small, every gift matters and is genuinely appreciated.
Be a part of the healing. Make a difference today!
LACNETS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, Tax ID #20-0062062. All donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Written by Lisa Yen, NP, NBC-HWC
Director of Programs & Outreach, LACNETS
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