CLog (part 4):

If my CLogs have helped, in any way, then they’ve been worthwhile. The reaction from many has left me speechless, your thoughts, best wishes and feedback have certainly helped me whilst going through this challenge and so thank you to each and every one of you.

Friends, family and your support network and talking about ‘it’.

Blokes… what are we like, we just bury our heads and hope the problem goes away, but often it doesn’t, which I learnt from experience.

My first dice with the Big ‘C’ I kept to myself, but there came a point where it became to much and I imploded, in front of an audience of people we were presenting too, not good.

This time has been completely different, it’s been in the open from day 1 and I’ve been blown away by the offers of support from friends and of course family.

Family is nailed on though isn’t it?!?! I’d certainly be there for any member of my family, what ever the situation, but of course I’m grateful for my children’s support and my cousin in NZ who checks in with me weekly, and of course ‘The Rock’, who has stepped out of her comfort zone to be by my side… remember, this isn’t just about you, it effects your partner and family too!

One special family mention… my brother in law, he’s been as good as a Bruv, checks in with me every day and is always there for me, thank you Bruv.

Then there’s friends, unfortunately there are too many people to mention, and it’s probably unfair to state names as I’ll likely upset somebody and I don’t want to do that,  but I am blessed to have some extra special friends, you know who you are and I will thank you endlessly when this is all over.

Talking about ‘it’ is a must, be open, don’t be scared of asking for help, building a support network is important, you’ll go through highs and lows, I’ve sobbed on numerous occasions… am I ashamed, absolutely not, it’s a top way to release your emotions.

I’m sure we all have different coping mechanisms, I’m sat here now staring at just 2 more weeks and already starting to feel the mental relief. I know the next 2 weeks will be tough, then there’s the 2 after treatment where I’ll apparently be on the floor, but I will get there… end of!

Biggest decision now… when I can swallow again, what will my first meal be 

I’ll go into detail about the treatment next time, it’s a lot to take in, but as ever we have to find a way, don’t we?

“Giving back and raising awareness to create hope”

Tracks from my years, as we’ve mentioned friends, this was my getting ready to go out on a Friday night with friends tune, enjoy:

Blondie - Rapture