A review by andersonh92
Don't Say "Everything Happens for a Reason": What Patients and Caregivers Want Friends to Know about Helping Them Through the Horrors of Cancer by Keith T. Hardeman

challenging emotional informative reflective fast-paced

5.0

Although the lens of this communication book is through one of dealing and coping with cancer, the 9 lessons within the book really are just good communication strategies. 

Start with empathy; don't try to fix the problem; listen to understand and with presentness; don't respond with cliches, correcting, or toxic positivity. All are just basic, human interactions that help you be a better person. 

I found myself remembering how others responded with toxic positivity in my time of grief, and vigorously nodding my head while reading. Everyone needs these reminders. Everyone. Especially if you or a loved one are touched by the effects of cancer.