Like AppleTV and Netflix here comes another mini-series ….. just a warning that characters involved will be entirely true and as it is looking forward will bear no resemblance to what actually happens. Well let’s see 👓🧐
As I (we) look forward there is a balance to be struck between positivity and pragmatism. I won’t ever let pragmatism stop us dreaming but it may just shape how things are done! Some aspects of the future such as a return to running and work deserve their own episode. These will contribute to my mental health if done well!
So what’s the key for me as I look forward? Quite simple really – to look forward with joy.
Sounds easy but it is balancing act on many levels. Positivity and optimism versus realism. Wanting to go quick versus the need to take time. Enjoying being in the moment against the joy of what is to come. Recognising the fear in future events (like scans) versus filling my diary with fun stuff to look forward to
In the near term it is about making sure I give time to respond to others needs. getting time in the diary to meet or call with friends and family. Keeping in touch through WhatsApp groups. Having fun stuff planned alongside the free time to just chill and walk the dog. Caring for others is a topic all on its own I think!
Alongside that knowing that some stuff will be tough. The scans will get me worried. Acknowledging that and not letting them get on top of me is vital.
What I love right now is the heightened sense of how I see the world. Doing things for the first time since my operation raises the senses and grows the anticipation. I hope I can keep that moving forward!
Beyond the near term it is about having some big events and plans in the dairy to get excited about.
Initial Christmas Day guests are sorted (🎅🌲) with a family Boxing Day planned. New Years eve is taking shape. Ready to give a big hurrah to 2025 and an even bigger f*** off to cancer.
As we go into 2025 then we have our first cruise booked – in April to Norway. Then our first grown up festival – Latitude (Sting I think is playing). Camper van is booked! And another trip to the Thomas Centre with Isaac.
On a smaller scale, a trip with old Uni pals to Newcastle, back to Cambridge for a beer or two, golf. Making time to meet good friends and family!
And the bucket list is growing. World Cup in 2026 in Mexico 🇲🇽, Canada 🇨🇦 & USA 🇺🇸. European big football derbies. Oktoberfest in 2025. More in running later but another Marathon at some point – I’d love it to be Tokyo !
And why does this matter? For me I look at the last 5-6 months and see a big wake up call. Life is precious. It can be taken away in an instant. I have been so, so lucky with my outcome. Yes I have a Stoma for life but I have had the cancer taken out. There is no limit to what I can do! I have been blessed 😇 Prayers have been answered 🙏. My faith remains strong.
So I need to use this as a chance to reset. My life has been amazing. How do I make it even better. How do I love and serve more? Looking forward to the future with joy will be critical to make sure I make the most of my time.
Be great to have others join in the fun!!!
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