Hi All,
An update that will hopefully uplift those recently diagnosed, going through treatment, or in recovery! I'm now almost 9 months after my last RT session and 12-months post surgery.
One year ago, we'd cancelled a planned trip for my husband's 50th birthday as I was scheduled for a tonsillectomy ... 1 week later I had my diagnosis of (P16+) cancer in left tonsil. Last summer and much of autumn was a bit pants; focused on treatment, recovery and learning to eat again.
I rebooked the birthday weekend for the weekend just gone (Martin's birthday was coronation day!) and packed in as much as we'd planned pre-cancer diagnosis. Life goes on, recovery is tough, but the human body & spirit are incredible.
Thinking back on the sleepless nights, the pain, the worry, daily trips to the hospital, the not eating, the hard road to recovery .... sometimes I admit I felt a bit defeated and hopeless; not for long though as it's not in my nature to wallow, I'm definitely glass half full and I'm a fighter.
I knew I was going to get through it and feel better. I was right. If you'd told me last August/September (when I was nauseous, spitting phlegm up every 5 mins and in horrible pain) that I'd be white water rafting and eating an eight-course menu I'd have raised an eyebrow or two! But I did it and I enjoyed every moment and mouthful 
If you're at the start of your journey, don't despair - set your sights on 1 year from now and be prepared to surprise yourself!
Helen x
P.s. We're sitting at the front!
Hi Lyn - yes, you're right - it makes you appreciate everything a lot more! I remember looking for positive updates on this forum when I first joined and it definitely helped when I read about people having anniversaries and how far they'd come and how their eating/ taste buds / saliva had continued to improve... There's definitely light at the end of the tunnel
Helen x
Hi Hazel - I do remember you telling me you'd waved as you passed the junction for Glan Clwyd 
We drive past it quite often as we have a caravan on the coast. A couple of weeks ago, Martin asked 'how do you feel about that time now, when you see the sign' - And to be honest, I just see it as a period in my life where I met a challenge and was determined I would overcome it and I did. I view it quite objectively. It was a hurdle that I cleared. I can compartmentalise quite easily, try not to get stuck in my own head, which is a useful skill for life in general.
Hope you're continuing to enjoy your cycling in Spain! We're off to Ibiza in 10 days I can't wait!!
Helen x
I totally understand what you mean, Lyn! It is in fact adaptation that marks the survival of the fittest. Navigating change with a positive attitude and adapting to focus on and pursue the best possible outcome.
Humans are amazing, but our minds & thoughts can sometimes get the better of us. I saw this (and other hurdles in my life, as you mention) as not just a physical challenge but a mental one. This attitude/ approach sets us on a good path I think.
Also, having a strong mental attitude and great will power can help us make lifestyle changes more easily - I definitely listen to my body more now that I'm over 50 and watch my nutrition and vitamin/ supplement intake closely! It really can make us stronger Lyn
Hugs, Helen x
What an amazing story. I'm booked in for surgery ìn 10 days and am so scared
Hi Jenny. Welcome to the community. This is a thread with a few posts that you might find interesting
RE: Hello! 34 year old woman diagnosed with Acinic Cell Cancer looking for support
It seems you don’t have to go through radiotherapy which is what messes most of us up for a few months.
Good luck with your surgery.
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
Hi Helen,
so great to see you happy and well 
thanks for your story, its inspiring. I am not here often, but glad i can say hello as we started approx same time diagnosis and treatment.
love to you and be in touch,
Marta x
