Headline: How Not to Say Dumb Shit to Someone Dealing with Cancer. The end of shit is scribbled through and there's a minimalist sketch of a person covering their own mouth

My quest to end cringeworthy interactions

Hi! My name is Heat, and I’m a long-term survivor of Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

I know first-hand: one of the side effects of a cancer diagnosis is enduring people saying dumb sh*t.

I also know there isn’t a magic statement that makes everything better. But there is opportunity for connection if you choose to “show up,” embrace vulnerability, and have hard conversations.

Visiting a person in crisis doesn’t have to be an “I did it because I was supposed to and thankfully it’s over” experience. It can be connective for both of you.

Take Your Foot Out of Your Mouth

At some point, you’ve said the wrong thing while trying to say the right thing. We’ve all been there. Now let’s learn from those mistakes.

Imagine having a map that showed the path to offering more generous support, helping you not to say the dumbest things at the worst time.

I’m creating a card deck called “How Not to Say Dumb Sh*t to People Dealing with Cancer.”

Drawing from the lived experiences of survivors and caretakers, the cards are a collection of “say this, not that” for anyone interacting with someone with cancer. Let our stories teach you how to support us. 

A side effect of these cards: feeling more confident even when you’re feeling uncomfortable.

No shame in having said some things that didn’t land well. This is a judgement-free zone. Whether you have a story to tell or want to learn how to do better, there is room for everyone at the table. 

To stay connected to this project and receive updates on when the cards are available, join our community below.