FINDING BREAST CANCER
June 18th, 2024. That date is etched in my mind. It’s the day I noticed a change in my breast and thought, “Uh oh, this could be bad.” And so began my journey through breast cancer diagnosis, treatment and my continuing recovery.
The photo above is my happiest place on earth. The Alders Beach where we have stayed on holiday for a week or two every year since my daughter was born. The place where my son learned to walk. Where kids play for hours without screens, and parents read or visit. Where nature is close, time stands still, and there’s space to think about life, plans and values. 2024 was the summer holiday “before”. Before diagnosis, endless tests and treatments. Before life turned upside down. It was a suspended moment of “what if?”, disbelief and denial. A last breath of fresh air and good times with family before the real grind began.
Stealing a line from one of my closest friends (hope it’s ok, FG?), “Just because it’s about you doesn’t make it interesting.” But for me this is a form of personal journaling, a way to compartmentalize things so I can let them go and move on.
I’ve been writing posts now and then over the last year but keeping them to myself. It probably would have been helpful to friends and family if I had published as I went along, so folks could keep in touch and up to date. But I’m an introvert, and sharing my story publicly isn’t an easy decision. In the end though, I’ve decided that if there’s anyone going through something similar, or who might be comforted or encouraged by reading my experiences, that would be one of the very best outcomes. I’m certain there are some kindred spirits out there!
I wish everyone could experience the outpouring of love and support that can happen after a life-changing diagnosis. I now realise that the constellation of people who make a difference in my life is far deeper and wider than I ever imagined. I have such deep gratitude for all the people who have helped me along this journey, and these pages will give me another way to thank them.
I often say I would never wish a diagnosis like this on anyone. But I have come to treasure the time it’s given me to focus on my values, to re-evaluate my goals and the things that are most important in my life. Maybe you can benefit from these thoughts too, with or without a major diagnosis of your own.
