Patients Worldwide Turn to an Online Social Network for Support
By: Carmen Chau
Updated: October 27, 2012
WINCHESTER, VA - Cancer is never an easy topic to discuss let alone go through. There is now a new social media site that can help patients find the support they often seek most.
Millions of anonymous users worldwide has signed onto Treatment Diaries, a place where they can share emotional stories with those who carry the same illnesses.
It was created by a woman named Amy Ohm, a cancer-surviving patient herself who wanted nothing more than encouragement and empathy when she was tackling her battle.
Now, she has decided to give back.
"Treatment Diaries was born out of a personal experience with a cancer diagnosis that I had in early 2000, and a desire to find people like me," says Ohm.
While the Internet nowadays is filled with health facts through Google, patients find it overwhelming. Many say they'd rather speak with someone who's been in their shoes.
Ohm says while doctors can offer tips, compassion can only be found in the patients themselves.
"Having that constant connection to those who can relate and provide encouragement whenever they need it 24/7 has been a lifesaver for a lot of people," adds Ohm.
Those that use this diary have the option to share their stories publicly or keep themselves anonymous.
Millions of anonymous users worldwide has signed onto Treatment Diaries, a place where they can share emotional stories with those who carry the same illnesses.
It was created by a woman named Amy Ohm, a cancer-surviving patient herself who wanted nothing more than encouragement and empathy when she was tackling her battle.
Now, she has decided to give back.
"Treatment Diaries was born out of a personal experience with a cancer diagnosis that I had in early 2000, and a desire to find people like me," says Ohm.
While the Internet nowadays is filled with health facts through Google, patients find it overwhelming. Many say they'd rather speak with someone who's been in their shoes.
Ohm says while doctors can offer tips, compassion can only be found in the patients themselves.
"Having that constant connection to those who can relate and provide encouragement whenever they need it 24/7 has been a lifesaver for a lot of people," adds Ohm.
Those that use this diary have the option to share their stories publicly or keep themselves anonymous.
