I have read so many stories recently of people who are dealing with cancer. I was diagnosed with non Hodgkins Lymphoma in 2017 - stage 4 aggressive.
Without treatment I was given six months to live. I had chemo and radiotherapy and I feel so fortunate to have had the modern drugs that now make a complete recovery possible.
Any diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming and if anything, I want to say that we hear so many stories of people who have sadly succumbed but we don’t hear enough of those who have overcome the illness and live a good life afterwards. I do think cancer changes us. In my own case, I believe it changed me for the better.
I am well, 82 in a few days time, and recently published a novel. It is not a book about cancer but the protagonist -a thwarted artist, hence the title -has a diagnosis of cancer midway through the novel. I based this part of the novel on my own experience. I believe it would give many a positive message and help them through their own journey. The novel is called DRAWING BREATH by PATRICIA HESKETT EVANS. Proceeds with be donated to a charity doing vital research into cancer.
I send every reader of this post my positive thoughts for a good recovery.
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Hi @Patricia82, and welcome to the forum.
Thank you for sharing your story, and huge congratulations on your recovery, your novel, and your upcoming 82nd birthday!
We try to strike a balance on the Forum when it comes to people sharing things they’ve created for sale - it’s a space members come to for peer support rather than promotion, so we do keep an eye on this. In this case, though, you’ve shared your own experience of blood cancer first and foremost, and the book comes out of that, so I’m very happy for this one to stay as it is.
I’m going to leave your post here for others to read and take heart from - I think it’ll mean a lot to some people going through their own diagnosis right now.
Take care, and happy almost-birthday,
Ceri - Blood Cancer UK Support Services
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Hi patricia82, good news is always welcome so congratulations to you.
All the best
Kevin
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Thank you, Kevin. I wish you well.
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Hi @Patricia82
That’s a really inspiring post that you have written.
A cancer diagnosis certainly changes things. I know I just enjoy every day and the simple things in life.
Like you I have people who have been on the journey with me through blood cancer who sadly have passed.
Equally I’ve connected with others who have bounced back from treatment.
It’s a reminder that blood cancer is different for everyone.
Stay well and take care
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Thank you, Duncan. I hope you continue to have the best of health. Stay positive. It certainly helps.
Pat
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Thanks @Patricia82 Pat.
Yes mindset and outlook plays a huge part in our cancer journey.
Take care
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