Well-Meant Words
“There are a lot of well-meant words from people who aren’t familiar with life with COPD. What’s your advice to those people? What do you wish they would say?”
How can I help you?
What time of day would be easier for you to go out to eat, etc.?
What time this week may I come over to visit you?
Hi Ida and thanks for sharing those statements that you would prefer people not ask you.
My thought is that it would be much better for people to actually make offers of what they can and will do FOR you rather than leave it open ended.
For example, "I'm coming over to get your laundry done", or, I've prepared some ready-to-eat meals for you which I'll bring over", or "I'm coming over to take you to lunch."How does that sound to you?
Sounds good! I know they are trying!
Yes, Ida, their intentions are, no doubt, good. Folks don't realize how to help or the sort of help that you would welcome unless we gently guide them.
Regards, Leon (site moderator)
