It's June 25th 2024. It is 1 week since I had my first round of chemotherapy, only 15 to go.
I am relaxing at home, currently taking a health sabbatical from my work as a self-employed Counsellor/Psychotherapist. Or as I told my clients, "Extended medical leave..."
My mind wanders to how I found myself here. It still sometimes seems surreal, that in a few short months, everything about my life, my future, has changed.
The year of 2023
Was a strange time. My nephew, second son of my dearest elder sister, was terminally ill. I spent my time working and supporting my sister, as best I could. It was incredibly stressful.
In summer 2023, When I noticed unusual feelings in the left side of my chest, I thought this must be a continuation of Long Covid symptoms. I had previously had two bouts of Covid 19 in 2021. I had struggled with long Covid, particularly affecting my left lung. I resolved to visit my GP, as soon as things settled in the family.
Sadly, my nephew died in September 2023.
Soon after his funeral, as I had promised myself, I made a GP appointment. The unusual feeling in the left side of my chest had persisted. My bra often felt uncomfortable and throughout the day, I would frequently ease my left breast out under the band, for some relief.
I still struggle to describe the feeling. It wasn't pain exactly. But it was uncomfortable and ever-present...
