Things to be thankful for

2014 has not been kind to me. For those of you who follow me on Twitter you will have seen I’ve recently been diagnosed with uterine cancer and I’m having to have a full hysterectomy and oophorectomy two weeks today. To say I am devastated is an understatement; I cannot believe that this is how it’s turning out for me. It’s something I have to try and come to turns with over the next few months.

I’ve also had to put my career on hold – which is just as devastating. I love my job and I am passionate about my next step up. I had the opportunity to go for a promotion this month but with my operation looming and my head being full of stress and worry, I’m not in the right place. And for the first time ever, I’m taking my foot off the pedal – which is so hard.

So I don’t have much I feel very thankful for. But given that today is Thanksgiving and this American holiday is fast becoming popular in the UK, I decided to write about three things I am thankful for. Warning: this may be unusually soppy!

1. I am thankful for having such a wonderful husband who is not only my best friend but has also been my rock throughout the last few months. I’m also grateful that he continues to treat me the same and that during a time which will test any couple, we still fight about my frequent ehem donations to ASOS and most of the time our relationship remains the same as it always has been. Loving and argumentative!

1. The last few months have proven to me beyond a doubt that I have some truly great friends. They’ve picked me up, dusted me off and kept me sane throughout every horrible turn and twist. I can rely on them entirely – whatever the day or time – and they are there for me. It’s also been wonderful for them to tell me that as well. I’ve been surprised at how far a good friend will go for you. Whether it’s getting up at the crack of dawn to accompany you to hospital, be your care in the community worker or to be an ear to listen when you are scared and sad or even just to keep things feeling like normal and talking about anything but my illness.

1. Lastly, I feel so thankful for my own inner strength. I’m proud of myself for still standing despite everything that’s being thrown at me – and believe me the shit hasn’t stopped with cancer diagnoses. It seems that things will continue to kick me when I’m down. I am glad I can put things into perspective and that I have been strong enough to make rational decisions about horrendous things.

So there you go. It felt very therapeutic!