In early June 2015, my husband, John, received devastating news no one is ever prepared to hear. He had cancer - brain cancer. We were sucker-punched into an unexpected reality which was never on our life path. After enduring a heartbreaking and life-changing period, I have firsthand knowledge and experience of the struggles those in crisis may go through and the aftermath.

At some point in life, everyone will face a roadblock or obstacle or will be touched by someone experiencing a challenging, tumultuous period. No one is immune to struggles. Tomorrow is not a given. Outsiders often feel uncomfortable or hesitant to address the situation or may be unsure how best to offer comfort and support especially if the circumstance is foreign, unthinkable, and perhaps horrific. 

I share my passion for caring and supporting others which led to Reach Out with Acts of Kindness, a call to action for creating a culture of compassion and empathy by enlightening how to be there for others when they need it the most. This relatable guide highlights specific ways to help others in crisis and the time following the adversity.

Reach Out is a worthwhile book for a book club to delve deep into the topic of how to help those in hardship and the aftermath. Book discussion questions are provided on this website.

Everyone has a gift whether it is picking up the phone to touch base, sending a note of concern, delivering a meal, picking up needed items at the grocery store or drug store, sitting with someone receiving treatment, babysitting, walking the dog, mowing the grass, helping with technology issues, etc. What is your gift?

No one should ever feel alone, forgotten, or fall through the cracks when a difficult time occurs. Don’t be a bystander to someone’s troubling period. As you move on with your day, be mindful of those struggling. 

Reach out.