Peer To Peer Support On Social Media
When I was diagnosed with cancer in 1988, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, I could not have been any more alone. There was no social media, there was no Internet, I did not even have a computer. What little I could find about what I was about to experience came from encyclopedias and researching through old newspaper files, you remember microfiche?
37 years later, we have the Internet and a robust resource of peer-to-peer social media pages and websites. These resources are filled with access to information ranging from experiences to medical information and resources, and stories of long term survivorship, probably the only thing of concern when it comes to beating cancer second only to hearing the words “you are in remission”.
While all this technology can be a very good thing, it does not come without its risks, and a lot of misinformation. I express constantly that I am not a doctor and for that reason I do not give out medical advice. Besides that lack of medical degree, I have no personal knowledge of medical history of anyone reaching out to me to make any kind of decision. It is that same reason I do not give out legal advice as I am not an attorney. However, I am able to provide anecdotes, stories and personal testimonials, verified information and facts to direct anyone looking for support as they deal with one of the most traumatic things a person can deal with in their life. I have no problem telling anyone, take the information that you find, share it with your doctor, and together the two of you make that decision.
With “Paul’s heart” I have reached so many people literally around the world offering support and information and guidance. And while I am not a big national worldwide organization, it is my hope that those who have followed me all of these years, who have shared my posts and videos, that I have made a difference even if just one person at a time. It is my plan and my hope to continue doing this for many years to come. And as always please like my page, follow my page, and please share my page, As that is the only way that I can continue my mission, to make a difference in the survivorship of cancer.
Paul's Heart 