I don't normally use the word 'survivor' in relation to my incurable cancer, it just doesn't seem to sit right despite the fact that I'm a 'glass half full' kind of guy. I always thought it only really applied to those who were in full remission. However, I was studying the term 'Survivorship' and found that there might be something in it for those living with incurable and long term cancer. …
Six years ago today I was diagnosed with metastatic Neuroendocrine Cancer. Until my 5th anniversary last year, I hadn't thought much about how (or if) I should mark these occasions. I've concluded there doesn't seem to be a right or wrong way to handle Cancer milestones which are frequently referred to as 'Cancerversaries'. Last year, I ended up settling for a '5 year' celebratory blog. I didn't think I…
One of the very first blog posts I wrote was about exercise. Basically I said it was medicine. I have not changed that view, I really believe it. All cancer patients should attempt to keep active and this is even more important if you are being treated for long-term cancer. Why? Because keeping active will not only help your physical condition but it will also help you cope mentally. There are numerous pieces of research…
In 2013, just when I thought everything seemed to be under control, I was told I had a ‘lesion’ on the left upper lobe of my thyroid. At the time, it was a bit of a shock as I had already been subjected to some radical surgery and wondered if this was just part of the relentless march of metastatic disease. The thyroid gland does in fact get mentioned frequently in NET patient discussions but many of the conver…
6 years ago today Chris and I flew off to Barbados on holiday. Both of us were looking forward to a nice break after a hectic start to 2010. When we got back, we both agreed it was the most relaxing holiday we had ever been on. It was heaven.
However, whilst I was lying on a sunbed soaking up the Caribbean sun drinking ‘pina coladas’, Neuroendocrine Tumours were growing in my small intestine, spreading into…
