12/07/2024
Today, 8 years ago, I received a cancer diagnosis that changed the trajectory of my life. It’s always a very contemplative day for me, and this year, I decided to write. I still remember the events of the day so vividly, even 8 years on. Immediately after the diagnosis appointment, I had an MRI, where the technician innocently asked, “are you having a good day?”. Mum and I looked at each other in shock and replied, “not really, no”.
This year, I started the day with an early morning meditation where a few slow tears fell, followed by cuddles with my beautiful cats and a long walk with a coffee on the beach. I try to get to the beach for a walk on the 12th of July each year. This morning was one of those perfect, crisp, clear winter mornings that just can’t be beaten. A day that has been markedly better than the 12th of July 2016.
I like to read the plaques on the park benches and tables that have been donated by different families. Do you ever take the time to do that? It always makes me curious about other people’s stories. My favourite message of the morning simply read “sit a bit” (I didn’t because the seat was damp and cold 😂, but I appreciated the invitation nonetheless). It served as a reminder to slow down, take it all in, and appreciate. This morning, I certainly did.
Campbell said to me this morning with a big hug, “you’ve made it”. And I thought, yes, well, at least this far.
