“Exhortations to think positively – to see the glass half full, even when it lies shattered on the floor – are not restricted to the pink ribbon culture.” –Barbara Ehrenreich, writing in The Guardian, Jan. 1, 2010.
Most everyone admires a positive attitude. Especially in circumstances where the outcome is in doubt. A diagnosis of cancer brings this doubt into very sharp focus, and combined with the well-known difficulties of treatment, many are apt to ascribe toughness, a fighting spirit, and general mental strength to a cancer patient they meet or know. This may be especially true in cases where the person with cancer is really just trying to survive.
Nurses in the cancer clinic are a part of the culture which cheers striving and a positive attitude. Not only do they cheer on any perceived positive attitude, they underline it. It’s happened to me many times.
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