Forum Discussion
Julez1958
4 years agoMember
I would have to say my aha moment was more of a journey than one “ moment” but it started early when I was diagnosed and overwhelmed with shock , I was having various scans and didn’t know if my cancer was stage 4 or not ( it turned out to be stage 2 , phew!) ,
I have always been a multi tasker who had trouble saying “ no” but I immediately started shedding responsibilities.
I was a board member of a voluntary organisation that had been taking up a lot of my time and when I tendered my resignation they said “ why don’t you take a 12 months period of leave “ . I said “ no” this is my decision”.
I learnt then that most people won’t argue with someone who has cancer.
I also cleared my work diary for 3 months ( I am semi retired so could go that) and ditched all engagements I felt were non essential.
As I progressed through treatment I found myself thinking “ how will this help my physical and mental well being” when considering what to do (or not.)
I started a diet and seeing an exercise physiologist and improved my physical state .
I am now 14 months post mastectomy and 3 months post DIEP reconstruction and continue to be a little bit selfish but also to cherish the good things in my life and try not to sweat the unimportant things.
I have always been a multi tasker who had trouble saying “ no” but I immediately started shedding responsibilities.
I was a board member of a voluntary organisation that had been taking up a lot of my time and when I tendered my resignation they said “ why don’t you take a 12 months period of leave “ . I said “ no” this is my decision”.
I learnt then that most people won’t argue with someone who has cancer.
I also cleared my work diary for 3 months ( I am semi retired so could go that) and ditched all engagements I felt were non essential.
As I progressed through treatment I found myself thinking “ how will this help my physical and mental well being” when considering what to do (or not.)
I started a diet and seeing an exercise physiologist and improved my physical state .
I am now 14 months post mastectomy and 3 months post DIEP reconstruction and continue to be a little bit selfish but also to cherish the good things in my life and try not to sweat the unimportant things.