Ebbs and flows of cancer treatment - Snapshot 1

Cancer was of this season of my life

7 days after turning 70 years old

In May 2025, I turned 70 years old. It felt like a significant milestone, so I began reflecting on the seasons of my life so far and considering new paths to follow. Just before my 70th birthday, I finished writing a piece that left me feeling energised and excited about future possibilities.

7 days after my 70th birthday, I underwent a colonoscopy, revealing a cancerous growth in my bowel. This led to a whirlwind of tests, hospital appointments, surgery, and chemotherapy. It all happened so quickly. It felt surreal, except for one moment, when the thought hit me: “What if the cancer has spread? What will that mean?” Tears flowed. I collected myself and gently said, “Don’t go there. Wait for the scan.” Thankfully, the scan showed the cancer was localised. This brought a sense of relief, as it provided a clear boundary or endpoint for treatment.

I chose to view the experience of cancer as part of my next season of life, rather than something to endure before I got on with living again.