Yesterday I finished my second stint of volunteering in the infusion room at the same oncology center where I did my chemo. I go every Thursday afternoon for one or two hours as a representative of the Breast Cancer Resources Center, to visit with people while they're getting their infusion. This experience is definitely outside of my comfort zone. I'm introverted; it's hard for me to just start a conversation with a stranger. Plus, these strangers are people going through hell, and they're feeling crappy, adding another layer to the awkwardness. I try to read the patients' body language before approaching them. Sometimes it's easy, like when they're asleep. I'm obviously not going to shake someone awake and say "Hey, how ya doin today?" I also try to avoid approaching people who are engrossed in a book, or busy conversing with a family member or friend.
Mr. Pincushion had a good idea for an ice-breaker for me...offer food! So today I went to the infusion room armed with a tray full of chocolate chip cookies. Most people were happy to take a cookie. When I offered one to an elderly lady, her eyes twinkled with excitement as she gave me a big smile. She practically purred "thank you so much." Of course, in the process of handing out cookies and feeling awkward, I didn't even think to tell the people I met that only a few months ago I was laying in one of these same chairs, and now I'm cancer free! Now that's a good conversation starter! Oh well, I'll have to try that next time. I'm sure this will get easier.
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