Morning James.. thinking of you and sending gentle hugs xx

I was just thinking of you yesterday. I hope youre doing well. Any update on your own tests and treatments?

My update. Physically doing quite well, not too much pain now,.able to walk around few thousand steps every day.

Just had a post.op MRI today, which was stressful but ok. The hospital spoke to me recently after histology analysis was completed..they said it.was good news, that they think all.the tumour is out with clear margins. They also said they removed 82 (!!) lymph nodes, most of.wuich were fine, but 2 had some cancerous cells. So i thjnk theyll want to do another round of chemo. Great! That will delay this.whole.thing another 3 months, including the reversal surgery, so it really.upset me (even though i know on some levels, it's almost as good news as it could.be)

Mentally im a bit of a wreck. As you know, I try to stay positive, but its hard right now. My employer got bought after months/years of shenanigans, and I found out on Monday they're making me redundant (plus a few others). Its really callous and cynical, and right now it's devastating as I am very close to several work friends, and Im worried about money etc on top of everything else.

My dear James, it is so good to hear from you, I really appreciate you taking the time..

Regarding the work situation, I can only imagine the added strain and stress this has caused for you and your family...but.. I always believe things happen for a reason. You say this has been a long ongoing situation and now it's finally settled. On a positive basis..the inevitable outcome has now been reached , meaning no more worrying about when and how long before you were going to be faced with this outcome.. there is financial support available to help you, this information can be found on many forums, so please enquire about any financial support you are entitled to.

Removal of 82 L.N does sound alarming but we have an average of 600 so enough to take care of you in the future

As for the reversal being delayed for a while, again I see it as a positive step in ensuring your future wellbeing.

Well done for getting thru the MRI , I have yet to conquer my horror of the procedure and again, it's a means to an end and vital for diagnosis and prognosis for us all.

With regards to your work colleagues, in my experience, whether or not you see each other on a daily basis, in the workplace, has little impact on a good relationship. It's even more important for your mental wellbeing and health to maintain good, positive relationships.. empathy and understanding from those who have travelled the same journey can be really helpful and reassuring but...we all need a life apart from the overwhelming impact of severe health issues ( in my opinion and experience)

So good to hear from you, I'm sending huge buckets of positivity and best wishes along with a gentle hug if I may xx

Take care and be kind to yourself please, your body and mind has undergone an  unimaginable onslaught and needs peace to rest and recover x

Hi James, wanted to let you know I am thinking of you and sending gentle hugs and positive vibes x

Afternoon.

We must have a connection as I as thinking about you today. How are things?

James4000 hi James how is things going. Always thinking of you  hope your improving every day lots of love  Geri x

Morning Kate, Geri and everyone else still reading.

Quick updates from me (most details above).

I've had a couple more scans (MRI and CT, I think). Yesterday I had a port fitted under sedation (I'm told this may be better for me than the Picc line I had before). It aches a bit but I think that should pass. It does stress me out though.

On my way to hospital to start new load of chemo. Cycle 1 of 6 today (or 7 of 12 in my case). It should just be a 'belt and braces' approach to make sure no dodgy cells are left. I guess I just have to get through it, but it's all getting a bit relentless.

Trying to keep myself distracted, and enjoy other things, and to get fitter again after surgery etc - mostly lots of walking, as Im worried to exercise too strenuously.

Hope everyone else is doing ok, getting along the paths of treatment.