Sometimes we might feel there is nothing we can do to help someone who’s ill, but showing kindness is a proven way of helping people to recover.
Your kindness can act as a medicine. Research has revealed that people shown kindness experience faster healing of wounds, less pain and anxiety, reduced blood pressure and shorter hospital stays. Best of all, kindness has healing properties for both the giver and the receiver, so it will benefit you too.
‘When I was seven, I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in my kidney. It had spread to my veins and my lungs, and I was so lucky to survive. Years later, I met the doctor who saved my life, and thanked him for what he did for me. I’ll never forget what he said – “I didn’t save your life, your parents did.” Never underestimate the effect that love and kindness can have on people who are ill. I wouldn’t be here now without it.’
– Greig Trout, double cancer survivor and founder of 101 Things to Do When You Survive
