What People Have Said About SHARE THE CARE

“Each member brings their own resources to the situation - each person learns to reach deep inside and bring something of unique value to the situation, a sense of humor, comfort, support, a warm touch, a phone call, a dinner that takes the edge off the day.”

A. Warren

“I would do it again without even thinking. I would do it for a friend of a friend. I would even do it for a stranger.”

J. St. Martin
Redbook, Mar. ‘97

“I learned the ‘facts of life’...that we will all die. Somehow it isn’t as frightening as it was. And that if we ask for help, it’s there. And though we may feel alone, if we have courage to let others in, others will be there.”

M. Schreibman

“We went from a bunch of confused people who really cared about this little family, to this incredible network. We’re set up so no one person does it all. No one gets burnt out and Linda and Bob (her son) always have someone there for them.”

S. Jansen
The Orange County Register. Nov ‘98

“I never imagined so many people would hold a ‘meeting’ for me. It’s actually hard to accept, to say ‘I need help’. But sharing all this gives me more peace of mind especially about Ben.” (her son)

L. Simpson
The Orange County Register, Nov. ‘98

“I recently saw your book at the Salt Lake City Cancer Wellness House. I think it’s the best resource I’ve ever encountered on this subject. I immediately ordered a copy and have recommended it to many friends and colleagues.”

M. L. Winningham,
APRN, Ph.D. FACSM

“It takes a lot of stamina, a lot of commitment, a lot of focus, a lot of giving up and starting over again. A lot of 'I don’t think I can do this' and a lot of 'oh yes, you can...' The Share the Care group has helped make it easier to give Rick the highest quality of life possible whether he’s on the track of living or on the track of dying.”

M.Stevens
The Santa Fe Reporter, Oct ‘96

“I was still very weak and I could only attend half of the meeting, but it was very powerful and it made me very happy. I felt a greater degree of security, as though I was part of something bigger. I learned how wonderful and compassionate people could be. I didn’t feel like a burden because I realized that people get something valuable for themselves out of helping out.”

R. Stevens
The Santa Fe Reporter, Oct ‘96

“As a nurse on a Bone Marrow transplant unit, I deal with very sick patients on a frequent basis... It’s always hard for myself, and other caregivers, to deal with the helpless feelings during a severe illness. This is why I would like to spread the word about ‘Funny Families’.”

K. Bucko. RN

“I look at life differently now. I spend more time with positive influences, try to enjoy life more and don’t get as upset with things that in the past would have greatly upset me. Everyone, once in their life should have the opportunity to experience people working together to help other people. There’s no better fulfillment in life than to know that maybe you made one hour, one day or more a little brighter for someone.”

J. Ambrose

“Family is not always defined by blood or marriage, but more often by love and commitment to each other.”

E. Farrow Savos
Daughter of Susan (the First "Funny Family")

“I can now dispute the cliche that blood is thicker than water. I have an extended family that is my family. You are absolutely incredible. I want you all to know that you are my source of strength, my courage. You comfort me, you cry with me, you laugh with me. You have been my medicine. I love you from the bottom of my heart.”

F. Cina
(thanking her group at a fundraiser for her)

“I got to really know Susan and get a first hand lesson in courage and great humor in the midst of trauma, distress and pain. As for the group I felt women sharing real respect for each other, true sensitivity and instant warm camaraderie.”

B. Delgado

“A key in ‘Share The Care’ is you identify the connection to the person. Kaye herself believes it will work and is willing to let it work. Then there is Bethany and Ada’s belief and their willingness to ask people to be involved. That tactic helps people understand it is not a tragic or hopeless situation. Instead of not knowing how they can help, they hear what jobs are needed, and equally important; have the right to say no.”

Rev. Linda Carlson
Jackson Citizen Patriot, Dec. ‘98

“I found your book about 2 and a half years ago when a friend was being treated for cancer. I was the Coordinator of her Share The Care group and the book told me everything I needed to get started. We took care of our friend until she died in April of 1999 and it was a profound experience. During that time, I spoke to several churches in the Madison WI area about Share The Care and many more groups have been formed.

L. Dillenberg