5 years

Exactly 5 years ago today my life changed forever.  On 23 October 2014 doctors delivered the news that I had multiple myeloma.

A large lesion had resulted in a catastrophic spinal fracture and I had several further lesions on my spine.

The prognosis at the time was not good.  And I had a few near-death experiences between then and the end of my treatment.  It resulted in my retirement from work; and a complete change in my lifestyle.  But against the odds I pulled through it, though there were times when I’m sure I could have just gone to “sleep” – if you get my drift?

It was then that I decided to start this blog and try to share my thoughts, feelings and experiences with anyone who might be interested.

It’s this blog, photography and latterly a re-kindling of my love for cycling that have gone a long way towards keeping me going.  They help me forget about the pain and discomfort and the thought that one day I’ll have to go through all this rigmarole again when I relapse.

But the whole point behind me writing this piece 5 years on is that I wouldn’t change a thing.  Really.  It has made me the person I am.  I am more laid back and accepting of things.  Stuff that would have really upset me is now batted away with a “whatever”.  Of course, I miss my work and my ability to get around easily, but…

the photo I took with my phone on my way in to my last ever day in work - a week or so before my diagnosis

As for the pain?  Well it’s always there.  My back is really weak.  But it’s all a reminder that I’m still alive.  Yes, I could take more painkillers but then I wouldn’t be me, I’d be some zombified shell of a human.

But it’s all taught me that you take whatever hand life deals you, and you get on with it.  The alternative is really not that pleasant!