2 years on

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Sorry I haven't been on here for a while. In fact I thought I had posted this in April and I'm guessing not as it popped up when I went to post....

Had my 2 year end of treatment anniversary at the weekend and 13th wedding anniversary the day after. This year it was nice to celebrate the wedding, share a meal and be less about the 2nd anniversary of not being able to swallow. 

About 4 weeks ago I was getting a lot of neck stiffness and pain, like I'd slept awkwardly but it lasted 2 weeks. Also had the odd swallowing problem, so messaged my CNS. Then we actually went 'out out' to a 50th, room was very cosy and after 3 years of being very careful both got covid. Due to my rheumatism meds I had anti virals, which did the job. Still had to postpone my check up though. 

Check up was yesterday, went through concerns and usual thorough check. Best news is everything looking good. Put issues down to bigger mouthfuls, chatting more and thinking less about how to eat. Neck pain probably radiotherapy hang over, rheumatism and stress. Thankfully it's Easter. They're increasing appointments to 4 month gap, but as per usual call with any worries. Was also told to keep challenging taste buds after admitting to managing a curry (it stung at the time, but no blisters). 

The real bittersweet is that whilst I still seem to be evading the beast that's taken half my family found out in past 2 weeks my dad has pancreatic cancer and has been told little value of chemo, on best care support and he has about 6 months. Absolutely devastated.

  • To add to this....

    Members who saw me through treatment may remember that to keep focused on the future I was planning a party for my 50th.

    Invites were sent, cakes baked, playlist, photos and decorations sorted. I decided I have everything I need so didn't want gifts, but asked for donations to Macmillan, we've raised enough to fund the forum for a day or two, so that has made me happier than any gift would have. I'll do a blog update with more on that. Sadly, I had to postpone. I think we're going ahead in September. Whilst planning I also thought that (sorry if this seems too flippant a term) but if any of the 'class of 21' members who helped me through were to find themselves in Staffordshire you would be more than welcome. You helped me get to celebrate. 

    I got the devastating call on my birthday that day was end of life, so I made the dash up to Leeds. He was pretty out of it by time I arrived, but I got a squeeze back. He held on until the next morning. We held his funeral yesterday. To say I am heartbroken is the biggest understatement. Thankfully, although it will never be back to its pre-cancer glory the voice did me proud, my brother and I gave the eulogy.

    So, although this may seem a sad post, as always it really is hope filled. If you are in those toughest days of treatment, belive in yourself, you will get stronger. Side effects fade, life comes back  and you live it with more vigour knowing how precious it is.

  • Hi Roniei95 - I remember when you first came to this forum.  Good to hear that things are in a good place for you regarding post treatment life. You have been a great help to many that have followed you into treatment with your advice and support.

    Very sorry to hear about your Dad. 

    Belated birthday wishes and have a great party when you finally get the opportunity to let your hair down.

    Peter
    See my profile for more details of my convoluted journey
  • Wonderful to hear how well you are doing. It means so much to those just starting,  to read how well we recover. 
    So be sorry about your Dad. 
    Enjoy your summer. 
    Xx

    Dani 

    Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019

    I wrote a blog about my cancer. just click on the link below 

    https://todaymycoffeetasteslikechristmasincostarica.com 

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

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  • Hi Ronnie  of course we remember you and well done 2 years is a wonderful feeling. So sorry yiur dad passed away but pleased you managed to get an hug.

    September I’ll be winging my way to the sun but let me know what date and I’ll have a sparkling water virtually with yiu might even try and gin and tonic  

    Posts like yours show people just starting or going through treatment and recovery really help,people to relate that life does go on. 
    hugs from me to you. 
    Hazel xx

    Hazel aka RadioactiveRaz 

    My blog is www.radioactiveraz.wordpress.com  HPV 16+ tonsil cancer Now  6 years  post treatment. 35 radiotherapy 2 chemo T2N2NM.Happily getting on with living always happy to help

    2 videos I’ve been involved with raising awareness of HNC and HPV cancers 

    https://www.instagram.com/merckhealthcare/reel/DBs8Y0niJ8N/