News from my end is that physically I am feeling really strong again...probably not physically strong in the sense of athletic fitness, but what's particularly encouraging is that my energy levels seem to be as good as they've ever been.
Sitting in the barber's chair on Thursday, having my first hair-cut in nearly half a year, was another clear signal that things were slowly returning to normal. See the latest snaps...
I've been back at work for the last 4 weeks - on a part-time basis only, working Monday to Wednesday. The mental adjustment proved to be a little more challenging then I expected, as I soon discovered what people mean when they say that "Cancer knocks your confidence". Having to, in effect, reteach myself how to do my job, I feel as though some momentum has returned and that my confidence and self-belief are slowly but surely being restored.
Speaking of work, I received some most unwelcome news on Thursday...my role within the company I work for has been dissolved.
Given the challenges that 2007 has thrown at me, this certainly wasn't the way I envisaged my transition back to work. Sure, there is plenty of room for me to feel down about the latest hand that I've been dealt, but I am adopting the attitude that this new 'challenge-ette' serves to remind me of what is truly important in life. In years gone by I would have viewed the process of cv rewriting and attending interviews somewhat burdensome; now, instead, I choose to be thankful that I am still around to be able to use this as an opportunity to further grow my career and character.
I have another check-up next week Friday at the Marsden - my first in two months. If truth be known, I feel a little bit nervous, but I suppose thats only natural. Its a funny old thing this being in remission: your appointments with the medical fraternity become less frequent, leaving you questioning and feeling a heightened sense of anxiety about every pain and creek that I'm sure is only innocuous. Going through the treatment I had the luxury of having a medical professional at my beck and call, and now these days I have to mentally adjust to planned less frequent check-ups.
For those who don't yet know I will be in South Africa from 7-15 December...hope to catch-up with those of you who are around then.
In the meantime please don't feel as though I no longer need your support, as although I'm cancer-free, this is still a very challenging period for me. Your calls/ sms/ emails are always really appreciated.
5 comments:
Hi Stu, Good to see you are gradually working your way back to full health. But I have to say -what a shit company they are! You deserve much better. Given the strength you've shown this year in fighting the cancer, I'm sure you'll be able to walk into another job with no trouble at all. As one who has just been through the very same with the same company, I know there is a better world out there. Give me a shout if you want to walk through your CV - we'll knock 'em dead!
Love Gill xx
"Onward and upward!"
Hey Stuart,
Good to see you back on the road to recovery. I am in London for the 1st of December. Would be great to meet up in town if you can make it.
Take care,
Steve P
Hi bruv, so glad to hear that your energy is coming back and that you are feeling more like your old self. I am sorry to hear about your role, but I do believe everything happens for a reason. You have such a gift with writing, perhaps you should write a book and make lots of money and have an early retirement - I know you'd love that;) Can't wait to see you in December. All my love to both you & Debs, tashie, xx
I didn't recognise you with hair!!!! I'm jealous - I'm still waiting for my first cut but it's not far off!
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