Canswer Hive: Comments We Never Want to Hear, Part 2
THIS IS THE CANSWER HIVE. TIPS AND INSIGHTS SHARED DIRECTLY FROM RETHINK’S YOUNG WOMEN’S NETWORK (RYWN)
This series of Canswer Hives presents all the things our community never want to hear. This month is all about appearance.
It is never a good idea to comment on someone’s appearance, but especially when a cancer diagnosis enters the picture. So why do so many people do it? Even though their intentions might be good (as in trying to downplay the loss of one’s hair and/or breasts), mostly, these comments come off as insensitive and just plain rude. Unless a person has had to lose body parts of their own, they will not understand how closely tied one’s hair, breasts, scars and weight are with one’s identity and self-confidence. Trust us when we say it’s tough. So, the next time you want to comfort your friend and say, “It’s just hair” – please don’t. Our advice? Instead of diminishing their experience and feelings, give your friend or family member some space to mourn their immense loss.
Thankfully our Canswer Hive has shared their real stories below to help us all try to do better.
