The Power of Courage in the Cancer Journey
A cancer diagnosis can feel like everything you know is suddenly flipped upside down. The fear, the uncertainty, the feeling of being alone—it can be overwhelming. But at CanCare, we believe no one should have to face cancer by themselves.
Our Mission at CanCare
Founded in 1990 by cancer survivor Anne Shaw Turnage in Houston, CanCare’s mission is to replace fear with hope, offering compassionate, personalized, and confidential support to cancer survivors, their caregivers, and anyone on the cancer journey.
The Core Values That Define Us
But it’s not just hope that drives us—it’s a set of four core values that shape everything we do: Courage, Compassion, Commitment, and Connection.
But today, we want to focus on courage—the heart and soul of what CanCare is all about. Courage fuels everything we do, from our volunteers' stories to the quiet strength of caregivers, and the resilience of those battling cancer.
How We Define Courage at CanCare
When we think of courage, we often imagine heroic acts. But at CanCare, courage shows up in everyday moments—in the quiet bravery of someone who reaches out for help, in a caregiver who stands by a loved one, or in a volunteer who shares their personal story of survival. These acts of courage, though they may seem small, make a world of difference to those facing cancer.
Bringing Hope Through Survivorship
At CanCare, we define courage as the ability to “bring hope through survivorship to those with cancer and their caregivers.” This definition captures the essence of what we do. It’s not just about surviving cancer—it’s about turning that experience into hope for someone else. Courage at CanCare is about taking your fear and uncertainty and transforming it into strength and inspiration for others.
How We Show Courage at CanCare
One of the most powerful ways CanCare volunteers show courage is by sharing their personal cancer stories. Opening up about something so deeply personal takes a lot of bravery, but it can make an incredible difference to someone facing a new diagnosis.
Knowing how to bring courage to a cancer patient starts with providing hope, reassurance, and connection through shared experiences.
Cancer Survivors Sharing Their Stories
Volunteers who are cancer survivors offer a unique form of support. By sharing their experiences, they help newly diagnosed individuals feel less alone and show them that hope is possible. This kind of courage not only helps those currently facing cancer but strengthens the entire CanCare community.
The Strength in Asking for Help
For those currently facing cancer, reaching out for support is a huge act of courage. It’s not easy to admit you need help or to share your fears, but at CanCare, we’re here to remind you that it’s okay to lean on others.
Whether it’s through one-on-one cancer support or joining one of our support groups, we’ll make sure you have a safe space where you can be heard, understood, and cared for.
Caregivers Showing Quiet Courage
Caregivers, too, show an incredible amount of courage. Supporting a loved one through cancer is a deeply emotional and exhausting experience.
Yet, many caregivers not only care for their own families but extend their support to others in similar situations, becoming a source of strength for other families in the CanCare community.
How You Can Show Courage with CanCare
You don’t have to face cancer to show courage. There are many ways to make a meaningful difference at CanCare, whether you’re seeking support, offering help, or volunteering your time.
- Seeking support: If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer, reaching out for help is an act of courage. At CanCare, we offer: some text
- Volunteering: If you’re a cancer survivor or caregiver, you can show courage by giving back. Volunteering with CanCare allows you to share your story, offer your support, and remind others that they are not alone.
Show Courage Through Action and Join the CanCare Community
By joining CanCare, you’re not just giving support—you’re giving courage. Whether you’re on the receiving end or volunteering your time, you’re becoming part of a compassionate community that understands the power of connection and resilience. You’re helping to build a space where no one has to face cancer alone.