The first Friday in February is wear red and raise awareness for heart disease. You may think what’s the link between a cancer patient and heart patient? Genetics, bad luck, unhealthy eating, poor exercise, etc. It may be any of these if a cancer patient develops heart disease. However one thing that is a common link – neuroendocrine cancer patients with carcinoid syndrome have a risk of developing carcinoid heart disease. Many patients get routinely scanned with an echocardiogram annually. Help raise awareness. Have a heart wear red on February 2nd 2024.
February is heart awareness month. Wearing the bright vibrant colour will not only make you feel better but it will help others take notice. Put on something different and draw attention- grab that person’s conscience.
Carcinoid heart disease
Carcinoid Heart Disease affects 20% of people with carcinoid syndrome it is caused by the build up of plaque in the heart valves. It affects how the heart works usually leading to surgery.
If you are stuck for what to wear on the first Friday in February think red! Encourage your work colleagues, friends, etc. Spread the word it’s good to talk and please have a heart wear red on Friday February 2nd 2024
The UK is a world class leader in cancer research. Since 2001 all the hard work given by all at The National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) has played a very large part in this. After 22 years the NCRI closes its doors. The announcement about this charity of the sudden closure of this UK National Cancer Research Institute comes as a huge blow.
The charity grew over its 22-year lifespan, linked up with many partners including Blood Cancer UK, Breast Cancer Now, Prostate Cancer UK, Pancreatic Cancer UK, plus many more. Fabulous work taken place including trials, research, specialist cancer groups, and networks. All fr the greater good of those affected by cancer; working together to improve coordination of cancer research throughout the UK and beyond. Improving the lives of millions of people around the world.
Professor Lawrence Young, Professor of Molecular Oncology, University of Warwick, said: “This is yet another blow to the UK research community”
Almost 400 000 new cancer cases are diagnoses every year in the UK. Understanding the way to treat the cancer for the best possible outcome is the goal. For some prostate and breast cancers NCRI came into its own with trials, involving radiotherapy combination trials and research resulting in treatment reduction from weeks to days.
Professor Lawrence Young, Professor of Molecular Oncology, University of Warwick, said: “This is shocking news that will significantly impact cancer research and the development of new treatments in the UK. This is yet another blow to the UK research community and to the position of the UK as a world leader in cancer research”.
22 Years of Ground-breaking Research to Sudden Closed Doors at The National Cancer Research Institute
The abrupt closure of the NCRI will be a huge void in cancer research. The charity well and truly made its mark, bringing the whole cancer research community together covering the whole UK and beyond. Working to improve the overall quality of life of anyone affected by cancer. Understand the cancers, develop the treatments, lessen the symptoms!
There were countless trials and research projects that have helped and will still go on to help so many people. A study showing Children with kidney cancers continue to be diagnosed with larger and more advanced tumours in the UK and Ireland than in other Western European countries, according to research presented at the NCRI Festival.
A study by Dr Jonathan Wadsley, a consultant clinical oncologist let us know Patients with low-risk thyroid cancer can receive lower dosed of radiation treatment. Thyroid cancer is relatively rare with a diagnosis of 3500 people per year in the UK, there were 434 patients in the trial. Contributing to a good study.
Trials and research improving lives of millions
Professor Robert Huddart, Professor of Urological Cancer at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, and Chair of the NCRI Radiotherapy Working Group (former known as CTRad), was saddened to hear the upsetting news. He said; “The UK has developed the reputation for the delivery of high quality, innovative academic trials that has changed practice and improved the outlook and lives of millions of people around the world. In radiotherapy examples include trials that introduced advanced technology reducing side effects and improving outcomes, changed prostate and breast treatments from five weeks or more to a few days”.
Professor Nick James, Professor of Prostate and Badder Cancer Research at The Institute of Cancer Research, London commented: “This news is astonishing. It could be devastating for people with cancer in this country”.
Charity Partner, Blood Cancer UK Deputy Director of Research, Sarah McDonald comments on the need for clinical trials. Stating they are the route for those living with blood cancer to access treatment. Sarah Commented: “It’s sad this long-standing multi-partner collaboration will be winding down. The partnership has had success, helping thousands of people get access to potentially life-saving treatments” . She went on to say, ” NCRI has played an important role at Blood Cancer UK. We’re deeply committed to continue collaborating with researchers, patients, charities, and government to ensure the hard work of the NCRI isn’t lost”.
The NCRI have made this decision after much though and debate. The uncertain economic and research environment has had an impact on the charity. After consulting with stakeholder, it was questionable that NCRI would be able to survive in the long term. therefore, proving a risk of operational failure. Hence the decision to close.
Fiona Driscoll, NCRI Chair stated: “It is with a mix of pride and regret that we write to inform you, that after 22 remarkable years, the NCRI will be winding down. This decision has not been taken lightly and has a huge impact on the NCRI staff. We are grateful for their continued support, hard work, and professionalism at such a challenging time”.
Massive blow for research
This is a dark day, especially for anyone affected by cancer. A massive blow for research and clinical trials. Remembering the extremely hard work that has taken place, passing on information is vital so the wonderful work of the NCRI is carried on.
female lab technician doing research with a microscope in the lab.
Today is Net Cancer Day. November 10th is the annual awareness day for Net Cancer. So many people wait for a long time for a diagnosis. Go back and forth to their doctors with symptoms and get told it is irritable bowel or something else other than the actual cancer. When Doctors are taught ‘when you hear hoofbeats, think horses not zebras,’ meaning a doctor should first think about what is a more common—and potentially more likely—diagnosis. Net Cancer and Carcinoid Syndrome is rare hence not the first thing the doctor looks for. Awareness needs to be raised for this cancer. Today is NET Cancer Day and the hope that the message gets around the world – raising awareness of this cancer.
Since I was a young child I have rode on motorcycles. The noise of the bike engines, the smell of exhaust fumes. Getting caught in the rain, remembering when travelling on a bike you can only carry small amounts. Familiar helmet flat hair. Years before health and safety set in; I would sit in front of my brother with my legs wrapped around the tank at 4 years of age and have a little ride on his motorcycle. Oh what wonderful memories. My first ride on a Harley-Davidson®, I would have been 13 years of age and on the back of a family friend. We called him Tam Harley. Steve and I have been riding together since we were 17. Started on a Suzuki, when we got married we had a Honda, we have had Kawasaki’s and BMW’s and now 39 years later since biking together we are our third Harley-Davidson®. For us Harley-Davidson riders the last weekend in August is a special one. We attend the fabulous bike rally in Aviemore Thunder in the glens.
As a child growing up bikes were prominent. The rally Thunder in the glens (TITG) hosted by Scottish HOG® Chapter Dunedin #9083. The rally is in Aviemore Scotland. For me this place is a very special, growing up I visited this town often and went skiing, wild swimming, hillwalking. Had so much fun skiing down those glistening white slopes. My heart beating so fast whilst I was racing downhill wishing I could beat the clock. Once again for me Aviemore brings passion, warmth exhilaration. The four seasons in an hour hasn’t changed. I have merely switched my walking or skiing clothing for biking gear and layer up and strip off as necessary. With the exception of Friday we are certainly blessed with warm and sunny weather for bank holiday weekend weather for Scotland. It was so lovely to go around in a t-shirt on Saturday after the mass ride out. And when we were up the mountains on Sunday the sun was shining. Thunder in the glens at its best.
The Three thousand sell out three day rally is in its 24th year. The mass ride out on the Saturday gets a great deal of participants on the pavement, in their gardens along the route, in the fields, etc. Families waving, smiling children. It is a happy day for many. The Sunday ride up the Cairngorm mountain is an emotional one for me, it brings back many happy memories of my skiing days. As well as a very sad occasion when I lost a friend on the mountain. The great thing about being able to sit on the back of the bike is you can sit and take in the view, which no one can deny on these routes is a beautiful one. And you can relax and think of all that has gone by over the years. The Sunday afternoon at the rally site there were charity rides. Where volunteers were giving rides around the site on their Harley-Davidson for a donation to charity. In the evenings there was an absolutely amazing choice of live music to choose from.
As well as my hubby being the Safety Officer. This year on the Mass Ride Out Steve was a road Marshall it gave me a chance to take photos when we were at the junction. I got a super opportunity to take photos of riders, some with their flags flying high, others waving and smiling.
While up at the rally you can stay on site, stay in a Macdonald Hotel or camp. Or choose to stay somewhere else and travel to the site. Whatever you choose you are usually guaranteed to have a super time. If you are away and want to listen to something on your phone, I found the perfect item; its one of the World’s Smallest Alexa Built-in Waterproof Mini speakers You can buy it from Amazon. You connect it to your phone, listen to it anywhere, anytime.
2023 will be the 25th anniversary will you be there?
The next event I am looking forward to is Halloween. Need to get some decorations. An ideal place is here https://giftdelivery.co.uk/?ref=DrElizabeth or at Pomchick -Why don’t you have a look? You never know you may find something you like, treat yourself or someone you love.
Safety is paramount. Make sure the battery on your vehicle is in good order. The battery guys have great deals – check them out.
Absolutely great gift I will be buying next on my list is from Perfume UK
Have a look on this website. These products are fantastic. Earhubs.
When my 20 year old son walked in the door with a cat box and said surprise I was not expecting to see a little fox red Labrador puppy. First instinct oh my goodness he is beautiful but going to be a lot of work. How wrong I was. Stuart and I tossed and turned for an hour or so deciding on a name for this absolutely stunning little boy. And finally it was decided Buddy was his name. From the beginning he followed me around, no matter where I went he was there; whether it was the sitting room, kitchen or bathroom he was by my side. One day my blood sugar dropped like a stone so quickly, he seemed to know, he tapped my leg and started whining. I most certainly wasn’t feeling too good. Checked the old glucose level and it was sitting at 3.1. This little guy was onto something. He carried my clothes, giving sets for my feed, he became my assistant. Very soon he was my “Buddy’ our amazing fox red Labrador.
Buddy was a gentle lab. Despite being of a big frame he cuddled me softly. Walked at my pace. Super with children and other animals. So much so with other animals we got him a wife. A stunning yellow Labrador called Bella. They became inseparable; very much husband and wife. I bread them and had two litters. Buddy was at the birth of both sets and very hands on the the puppies. A very modern parent. We keep in touch with several of the owners and they have visited and brought the labradors back to visit.
Buddy as an assistance dog was so amazing. He always knew what made me tick. Tended to know I needed to sit down before I did. Such a clever clogs. He always knew best, would jump up on the sofa beside me and snuggle in and we would fall asleep in the afternoon. Or reading a goodbook, or listening to music; any track, just ask my Alexa to play it or listen on my phone using my Amazon music app . So calming and most definitely make me feel at ease. One day my nurses were in to give me my treatment, there were two of them. One nurse took a seat to read the notes whilst the other was drawing up the meds, etc. Buddy walked over to the nurse that had the notes and gently tapped her on the leg with his paw. I asked her if she had ate breakfast. Bearing in mind it was 11.45am. She said no I skipped it this morning. Buddy tapped her again and again. I asked if she would take her blood sugar level with my machine. Which she did. Her level was sitting at 3.6 – Buddy knew it was below 4 and she was hungry. She ate something and immediately her levels increased. Buddy was happy and the nurse felt better.
Did this dog complain about anything? Heck no. One day he had really sore pads on his feet and I rubbed in balm. You could see he was in pain – he never pulled away, barked or winced. He trusted me implicitly, if I said this is what we should do he would let me do it.
What he loved was to cuddle in, go for a ride in the car and most of all walk in the back field. He was a home bird, right to the end. Buddy was only feeling poorly for a couple of days and died in my arms at home with Bella and my hubby Steve by his side. Just what he would have wanted.
It Has been a whole week now without my beloved boy. Bella and I are helping each other through it. Bella has never been a dog on her own. She will miss having him here as much as I will. Although he was a placid quiet dog, the house is eerily quiet without him. Yes I am very upset and could cry a river at the thought of him no longer being at my side but what I have to remember is all the wonderful happy times we had together. The great many years and joy he brought not only to me but to us as a family. Thank you my beautiful Buddy our amazing fox red Labrador for being part of our lives. I love you.
If you enjoyed reading this post please feel free to read further posts on my blog page. Or you can read some medical based posts at my other site EJY Medical Writing.
My Buddy boy loved to help with carrying my socks. I loved to buy quality socks for all the family at The Socks Box
The summer has been fairly kind to bikers this 2022 in Scotland. A great many dry sunny days and even on the cloudier days the sun has made an appearance on several occasions. For many friends they have been attending bike rallies, going off on super runs. No matter if it is long or short just the getting out for a while whether it is with a group of mates or a solo run. That feeling of freedom with not a care in the world and to cap it all the fabulous scenery that our country has to offer is most definitely worth taking to the road for. However I have had a medical issue with my gastrostomy tube and wasn’t feeling too great at the start of the season. Not like me at all but I welcomed my regular visit to one of my consultants. We had a long chat and it was decided I would get my lifesaving rig removed and a further procedure performed in hospital. Once this is done hoping I will be back on the Harley-Davidson® in no time.
True to his word I faced 13 medical professionals in the operating theatre just short of 4 weeks later. Getting the new tube fitted was most definitely daunting. The staff that look after me are absolutely amazing and when my heart rate dropped extremely low that the alarms were ringing they all remained so calm. Quietly I could here the radiologist say Elizabeth’s lips and feet are a lovely shade of blue. A nurse came and held my hand reassuringly and gently put a foil blanket over, ‘you are a tad cold’ she said and then continued to massage my feet. Once it was over and I was back sitting up and eager to go home one of the nurses that worked in London introduced me to a fabulous new dressing for around my tube. She gave me a pretty floral one and told me I could purchase them online. They are called G-tube dressings and are washable. Fabulous.
I got the talk about taking this easy when I got home. I so have to admit I never anticipated how long it would take for me to feel like ME. But what I can say is 4 weeks after normality started to set in. Since I have had it done I’ve enjoyed riding pillion three times;l. Gosh the relief I can have my feed running and it isn’t leaking out of me. Or more importantly the balloon can no longer explode inside my tummy. What a relief. I enjoy plenty of relaxation time; meditation and wellbeing top of the list. And of course a lot of reading snuggled into my beautiful labradors. As well as picking up a book and sifting through the pages which I so enjoy I enjoyed many books on Audible – Amazon do super deals including the first three months for 99p. This is one of the best and most used subscriptions I have taken on. If you enjoy reading and audio books you will absolutely love Audible If you don’t have Amazon Prime, it is worth joining. I wouldn’t be without it. Orders delivered next day, music, videos, etc. Superb prices. Fabulous.
The runs are very different, the first was just Steve and I tottering around our own area on my birthday on the 6th of August. We enjoy touring the Glide a little East Lothian Route, starting and finishing in Pencaitland. Taking in East Saltoun, Gifford and Haddington. The second was a ride to Stirling to meet up with some members from The Dunedin Chapter. A quick hop on the A1; stopped at Elginhaugh to meet up with Deke and then onto the bypass, joined and rode up the M9. A natter with fellow bikers and then back home. And finally a third run to Gullane to return granddaughters school bags.
The runs were enjoyable, the first most certainly very scenic and enjoyable for pillion view. Riding along single lane country roads – so easy on the eye. Chocolate box houses, overhung trees, lambs running in the fields. However on the ride to Stirling the smooth run up the dual carriageway of the A1 with the forth to my right. A perfect clear view of fife and the only distraction was the crops in the fields as they swayed gracefully and rhythmically as if they were dancing in time. The Sunday run to Gullane was a beautiful one. Living in East Lothian it is easy to take for granted such beauty; riding through the championship golf course I watch the golfers enjoy their activities and then take in the quality and beauty of the course. The greens looking in super shape. The course comprises of many shades of green and I think of my parents and the discussion we had many years ago as we looked at a globe and as a child I asked what is Gods colour Blue or Green.
These runs are in preparation to go to Aviemore with Steve. This year in Aviemore we will see many people with motorcycles, especially Harley-Davidsons® It will be lovely to go into the hive of activity. I never once thought when I was up in Aviemore every other week skiing, climbing and endlessly hill walking over a duration of many years would I be a granny riding pillion on a Harley-Davidson®.
I have been looking at books – quite fancy treating us to this one; Britain for Bikers
August was always a month of celebration, I was born on the 6th of the month in 1966 and married on the 22nd in 1986. However when my fabulous Mother died on the 9th of August in 2013 I felt like the life had been sucked out of me. And most certainly did not feel like celebrating. As the years have ticked on I have found I miss her more each day. The telephone rings first thing in the morning and I still expect it to be my Ma. My heart aches, I yearn to sit and chat and share a story or two like we always did. There is so much I want to tell her and the best place to do this is having a blether and a walk in the sunshine.
On Saturday I took a walk in the sunshine. I walked 100 yards from our house in the beautiful sunshine. Walked my Labrador Bella up the garden and let her run free in the field. I admired the beautiful field of everlasting flowers. I sat in the field looked at the stunning carpet of purple. Dancing were several rogue vibrant red poppies. Swaying back and forth, on looking at them if one had a vivid imagination such as mine they look like they are chatting on the dance floor. As I sat I thought of Mum, she would never want me to be sad. Think happy thoughts she would say. Smile and the world smiles with you. On the last day of her life she said to me I will never leave you and I believe her. I still feel her love.
I also feel her love through my beautiful grandchildren. They are very happy loving funny children. Our grandchildren most certainly keep me going and help me all my daily battle. I can now understand how my mother fought so hard when she was diagnosed with lung cancer and struggled on even in the darkest days. The shrieking laughter, the fingerprints on the glass cabinets they leave behind. The little stories they read to you are such a tonic.
I enjoy most of my time with my amazing labradors, very rarely there isn’t a dog at my feet. Bella was on the walk with me on Saturday. We look after our dogs and make sure they get well fed and appropriate supplements. One such supplement is Premium Omega Oil Capsules. You can buy them from Amazon and get them delivered straight to your door. I give both my labradors these super supplements. It comes in an easy to use pump and keeps their skin and coat in great condition. Buddy and Bella love the taste so its so easy to give.
There are many days I am shattered. Would I have life any other way? No not at all.
Have a grand day everyone. And thanks ever so much for taking the time to read this short blog post.
Living everyday with a chronic illness can take its toll. Especially when a rare disease such as carcinoid syndrome and doesn’t trip of the lips easily. Most people haven’t heard of the cancer that comes with it let alone understand it. The daily routine of creams, feeding, blood sugar checking. Not to mention the absolute fatigue. What makes life much easier is routine. And most importantly I make sure I find a special time for friendship, relaxation and love.
In between my weekly tube services, 14 day octreotide treatment I find time to get some normality into my life. The one thing I promised myself is when the words incurable rang in my ears; I most certainly gave myself a talking to and will always fit this disease round my life not my life round the disease. My family is hugely important to me. I will always find the time to have fun and a willing ear. As time is going on and my condition progresses what is becoming apparent to me is what helps keep me sane is friendship, relaxation and love. The unconditional love I have for my husband and children (and their children) goes without saying. I love and am loved by some beautiful people that help me get by. Friendship is amazing, it is comforting to get woken by your mobile phone with a message to ask how you are. Or just to say hello. Sometimes the message actually may be asking for advice – I like that. Totally feel needed. Relaxation is essential for us all, enjoy.
I have been having a particularly difficult time recently with my rig. However on Saturday it was the most beautiful day and there was a Chapter Ride organised. We are members of a Harley-Davidson® bike club – The Dunedin Chapter. We get together for rides, social events, charity fundraisers. Superb way of getting out on the bike and meeting new people. Steve was going on the Harley-Davidson® on the ride. Some of our friends were going on the ride. I decided since it was only a 60 mile run I would go to. Super weather, beautiful scenery, great friends and on our latest Harley-Davidson®. Of course I clambered on the back of the armchair seat. Feed linked up and away we went. A wonderful ride to The Big Red Barn.
After a wonderful relaxed few days seeing and chatting to family on the phone. Speaking to friends. And getting out on the bike for a while. I am now ready for my hospital appointment tomorrow.
Think I will get on the website Handy Candy and get a few goodies for the house. Life is good.
Already we are half way through the year of 2022. Finally after the last few years of PPE, mask wearing during covid and lockdown we are getting some normality in our lives. Covid will never disappear however we are dealing with things and actually getting out meeting each other and it feels so good. Most of us have missed out on something in our lives, a celebration, graduation, that wonderful holiday we had planned. Sadly there has been difficult times where we have not been able to be together and sickness has kept us at arms length. I most certainly cannot fault the way I have been treated by our good old NHS. My treatment has never stopped or home visits from my District nurses right through the pandemic. Now that time has moved on many people are planning trips to other countries, including three of our friends from Switzerland. Whilst on their trip to Scotland we managed to finally have our bikers BBQ
I am fairly certain that covid will not leave us in a hurry and at the moment it is rearing its ugly head. With a notable increase in diagnosis again. However that is most likely to us all mixing and going out on adventures. A very large majority of us are vaccinated, it won’t stop us getting covid but should hopefully lower hospital admissions and death rates. I have been extremely grateful for the care I have had all the way through. The vaccines I have had. And the continued care and management I get with my cancer team. When I am up to it I enjoy time with buddies and going out on the Harley-Davidson® with my hubby.
The final week of June is always an eventful one for us. A birthday for Steve and brother in law Alan. So now three years later our buddies could finally ride their NC500 trip, travelling from Switzerland on their Harley-Davidson motorcycles. We were so happy to spend the final three days with them. Hear of their travels, have a BBQ at ours, go out to The Hard Rock Cafe in Edinburgh, and on their final day travel with them on their way to the ferry and visit Holy Island and Bamburgh Castle. What fun we all had.
The BBQ was great fun, we chatted, laughed, there was lovely food cooked by head chef Steve. A warm fire pit for those that felt the chill in the air. Steve, Deke and Ewan treated us to some tunes and kept us entertained. I am pretty sure everyone went home with full bellies and pretty satisfied and happy. Our dogs loved having everyone round.
The most important thing I have learnt from hitting the brick wall that day and hearing the words incurable is life is for living. I love and value my family, good friendship and spending some time to get out and see the sights can be energising. However, I do so enjoy taking time for myself. In the way of putting my feet up, sitting in silence and enjoying a jolly good rest with my most beautiful labradors, Buddy and Bella.
Our house is usually always full of chatter. We have the uncanny skill of speaking and listening at the same time. Grandchildren and labradors bring much needed laughter. They are my essential sunshine on a rainy day. Most definitely turn my frown upside down and oh yes help me smile each and every day. I can always say what great fun granddaughter’s can bring.
If you were to add the age up of the three of them you only reach the ripe old age of nearly 12. Firstly there is Alexandra. She is the eldest at just turned 6, Ellie comes second at 5 years of age and Luna will be 2 at the end of the month. The girls all play so well together, shrieking up and down our hall. Running around the garden. Playing with the garden toys or walking the labradors in the back field together with me, all of us singing and chatting away. The last time the girls were playing together they went to Vogrie Country Park and what fun they had.
Individually they all like to come play at ours too, get some grandparent time. Bake cakes, do some arts and crafts, play games, garden with Granny, clean the Harley-Davidson with Papa and they most certainly love getting in the Wetroom and having a long shower, playing water games, singing at the top of their voices. We all love to go walking with Buddy and Bella my Labrador retrievers. Our back field is ideal, a wonderful safe environment for both dogs and children. Or go to unleashed Dog Park at Pencaitland and enjoy some fun.
It can be the darkest day, you could feel at your lowest ebb and these little cherubs will cheer you up no end. Melt your heart on the coldest day and yes oh yes they can all talk. Proper little chatterboxes.
This Easter weekend was particularly lovely. Alexandra helped Granny put some stickers on the window. Girls helping Papa with the ride on mower. Then oh so much fun hunting for some eggs.
Undoubtedly grandchildren fill a hole in your heart you did not know existed. For this reason I would recommend them to anyone.
Life for everyone can be challenging. We all find the hum drum of daily living difficult at some point in our lives. When I was studying at university right out of high school gosh I thought life was difficult, when in fact it was actually pretty easy and straightforward. A lot of water has gone under the bridge since then my goodness. I’m married, have children, grandchildren, have enjoyed happy times, went through some sad experiences, proudly gained my PhD, and most definitely feel loved. I feel I was brought up fairly well and I have a glass full attitude to life and always try and look on the bright side. On meeting someone for the first time I treat them as a genius and work backwards and always have a “book and cover policy” – you never know what goes on behind closed doors or what is hiding behind that lovely smile. Although I am fairly level headed human and like the lion I am feel I can deal with anything, nothing prepared me for the day I went into the consultation room to be told I had carcinoid syndrome and it was incurable. Am I angry at the carcinoid syndrome diagnosis?
When I heard the words incurable, I first felt like I hit a brick wall. My stomach churned, after a few moments of the conversation with the consultant that day the remainIng words were not communicating with my ears and the journey home was a blur. But as time went on, getting medical treatments, ongoing management of my incurable condition. Surgery to get a gastrostomy feed. I decided to use my writing to promote awareness of Net cancer and carcinoid syndrome. I find writing helps me get through the day, it helps me relax, encourages me to take photographs, I read about other subjects. All in all, my mind gets flooded with new information and I totally enjoy being creative looking at life from a different angle. I found a way to deal with my illness. At first yes I felt rather upset and confused now I am not annoyed or angry at all. I believe getting a diagnosis has given me the coping mechanism; it has made me the person I am today. I have learnt what is important, especially things like keeping in touch with people, showing emotion and saying I love you.
Nearing the end of March and we have sprung forward for daylight saving. Lost an hour in our bed did that cause any upset. Gosh no, woke up to a beautiful sunny Sunday morning, the fresh dew glistening on the blades of grass as I drew back the curtains. Six year old granddaughter Alexandra was getting her breakfast then off to dance. She attends a dance class every Sunday which she absolutely loves. For later in the day when she was back at ours it was arranged that we would go out on an adventure. This would include a drive to a Forrest Park and then there would be Frogs, nest building and watching by the pond.
My sister Hazel and her Granddaughter Lily came to mine and picked up Alexandra and me. We travelled the scenic route from our home in Boggs Holdings, Pencaitland to Glentress, Peebles in The Scottish Borders. We headed along familiar roads, up the granite hills, driving up the hills straight through the golf course in Innerleithen. Looking out the window at sheep and their newly born lambs dancing around the bushes.
As we approached the Glentress Centre we drove through the well sign posted road to the upper car park. Got out the car. And went on an adventure. Tummy’s were rumbling, so first of all it was time to feed the girls at Glentress Peel Cafe – this was a super place to have something to eat. Catering for all, adults, children, decent enough vegetarian option and dog friendly. Beautiful outlook with a pond just outside.
The pond was a great attraction. Alexandra and Lily excitedly watched the frogs swimming. Eagerly took in all the pond had to offer including frog spawn, insects galore and many plants. I have to admit I was in my element sitting on the bank watching and taking photographs.
We took the steady incline back up to the car park. The girls ran around laughing and playing catch. Alexandra collected a fairly large stone, the girls went on in search for moss and they started nest building. The Ranger walked by and smiled. A few minutes later she came back, as we were sitting at the picnic table she presented the girls with activity sheets and coloured pencils. She said well done on their nest building.
As the girls sat and drew pictures and coloured in I took in the breathtaking view. Watched some mountain bikers. And looked out onto the hills with the Glentress Forest Lodges that are available to rent. With the thought that one weekend that would be a lovely stay for a night or three.
All in all what a great way to spend a few hours on a Sunday.
smile each and every day 