Most people have a love-hate relationship with Facebook, but these days, I remember why I love so the social network.
I saw several friends go through cancer, and I saw how Facebook can be an important ally in the process ?? in the fight against mesothelioma or another type of cancer, and helping friends and family say goodbye and manage their pain.
One of the most remarkable things is how Facebook can help us remember those we have lost, even years after their passing.
Remembering a friend
In 06, I lost a friend to cancer.
he and I sort of grew up together, and by that I mean he was friends with my older brother and I had a crush on him for years. Before his death, in fact I sent him a note in which I confessed my crush for a long time. His death was so hard for her friends and family, especially his only brother, sister.
Over the years, the pain does not seem to decrease, and I always remember her cute smile and fun personality. Unfortunately, I do not always remember the exact day it happened. But every year on February 16, his family posts photos and memories of him in a private Facebook group. There are 75 members in the group, and no one else can view messages
This year, his mother wrote :. ?? After 9 years, it is still a difficult day. We appreciate those who remember and continue to share memories of him. They are so comfortable and help us to live with "different." "
Friends and family also post in the group around his birthday. He would have celebrated his 40th birthday last October.
His friends from near and far also comment on the messages. We all share a moment and remember all the amazing things about him. without Facebook, February 16 birthday and likely pass without notice. But this way, it is as we all gathered again to reach and comfort of another.
lost friends leave a legacy Rich
over the last eight months, I said goodbye to two college friends who have lost their battles with cancer. I am constantly reminded both of their lives, and the rich legacy they left behind. All thanks to Facebook.
earlier this year, when I heard that a friend was in his last days, I started to leaf through my old photo albums, take photos with my smartphone along the way. Then I posted these images on my Facebook page and tagged my friend. This way, all his Facebook friends could see the photos of our time at the middle and high school.
Before long, many of our friends began to comment on photos. He was so good to connect with people like that I haven ?? t seen for nearly two decades. I also posted a picture of me and my friend as my profile picture.
?? Absolutely I Think Facebook helped ??
Last year, the University of friends created a Facebook group to share prayers and memories of the other friend as she neared the end of his fight against cancer. I am able to stay updated on his journey with lymphoma, and we were all able to share our grief.
Since his death in July, her husband regularly publishes about their children on his Facebook page. Seeing photos of them to create a Valentine's gift for their father or walking in the grass near the grave of their mother allows me to continue treating my pain and remember my friend.
I recently asked her husband if he thought Facebook had helped him cope during the trip.
"I absolutely think Facebook helped, ?? he said." It's cathartic to share where I am. It is useful, so I was told, for people who care for you to read what is happening and how they can pray. "
He had a word of warning for those who walk a similar path.
" There can be negative as well, "he said." Some people can take a nice tool and share their vision of negativity and unnecessary for many world through Facebook. for me it helped, and I've learned to ignore the clumsy and hurtful things shared with us.??
This is the first of a two part series on Facebook and mourn a lost loved one to mesothelioma or other cancer. You can still comment or share your story on the Facebook page of mesothelioma ?? Centre.
