I decorated my Christmas tree today and was struck by a couple of profound thoughts.
1. This time last year, I had no idea of what was going to happen to me. And that's fine with me. I would much rather live life as it happens rather than fret about things. Yes, I'll plan for the future to a certain extent, but I'm not going to get so embroiled in thinking what might happen tomorrow that I forget to live today.
2. There have been so many acts of kindness shown to me this year.
- My boss enveloped me in the biggest bear hug when I broke down in front of him whilst I was telling him about my diagnosis.
- My work colleagues have collectively donated 10 GALLONS of blood [and counting] on my behalf this year.
- Our wedding guests donated over £1000 to charity for us.
- The staff at the Christie are unfailingly wonderful. They deserve medals.
- And the folks here have listened, read my ramblings, commented on them and supported me, particularly through the dark days of early diagnosis.
My life is enriched by what has happened to me this year. I know some people may think that's an odd way of looking at it, but it's true. I feel blessed to have had all these experiences and I wouldn't change a single thing.
Yesterday I made a formal application to go from full time at work to part time [working 4 days per week instead of 5] so that I can "give" that fifth day each week to the Christie as a volunteer. The application form for the Christie is next on my To Do list........it's something I HAVE to do. I've been given a second chance for a reason. If life is sending me down a different path, I have to listen and go with it.
Jacqui x
