Hi, I had breast cancer in 2007, had chemo and surgery, both breasts removed to avoid recurrence. My consultant at the time told me I was lucky as there was a 99% chance that I would not be troubled with cancer again.  I got on with my life with my hubby,dogs and very busy job.

At the beginning of 2016 I developed gradually increasing pain in my right hip, by Easter this got so bad that I went to my doctor, painkillers and x-ray later found me back with my doctor who told me the cancer had returned in my bones, a rapid appointment for CT and MRI scans was made and 3 days later I saw my consultant for the 1st time and was told the cancer was in my liver as well and it was definitely life limiting. I had 5 days of intensive radiotherapy, during which time I broke my pubic bone whilst crossing my legs because my bones were so fragile. I then went on to high dosage chemo and thought I was going to die.  2016 consisted of multiple admissions to hospital and 2 10 day stays in our wonderful hospice here in Jersey I have been going there once a week since then for day care and it is such an enormous help..  

I was told a few months ago that none of the medical staff thought I would survive 2016, but as they did not tell me I assumed I would improve and 3 years later am still here. I cannot say it is easy living with my cancer, I have a completely collapsed lumber vertebrae, which limits what I can do, stamina and energy are way down from what they used to be but i am still here, I have found new hobbies to replace those I can no longer do, drawing, calligraphy and quilting, I have a beautiful grandson who is my pride and joy and I am totally convinced that by remaining positive and drawing strength from my wonderful husband and family, my loving church family and some very good friends is in a large way responsible for me still being here 3 1/2 years after diagnosis.  

To all of you cancer sufferers out there try to stay positive, do what you can do and stop feeling guilty or sad about what you can no longer achieve and enjoy what you can do. Set yourself goals to achieve and don’t be to proud to lean on people when you have to.  My next goal is to reach my 65th birthday next September and hopefully to welcome a 2nd grandchild sometime in the next year.  I am sorry this post is so long but I wanted to show how positivity can help. There are many days when I feel horrible and permanently tired but I keep smiling and staying positive. My thoughts and prayers are with all cancer sufferers but especially those who, like me are on palliative care with limited life, both in time and ability to do things. May our good Lord hold us in the palm of his hand and keep us safe.