Little lifts

Having cancer myself has, of course, sent both Sheena and I into a slightly more reflective frame of mind, especially when we think about the last 18 months. In October 2018, she was diagnosed with breast cancer and we went through a hell of a journey together. We have moved on so much - she is so much stronger and returning to her normal self. Her final treatment was in January, so it's still a recent memory, but we felt we were back on track.

We were to become very familiar with
the Wolverstone Ward (C) Ipswich Star

My recently diagnosed cancer is different and it will affect me in different ways. I'm very happy that there is no indication that I'll need chemotherapy (at the moment); I went to every one of Sheena's treatments, and although we tried to make them a positive experience, the physical, mental and long-term effects took a lot of getting over. For her, of course, but partially for me as observer too. Partners of loved ones going through chemo will know what I mean.

But I want to take you back to a moment that was pretty huge - when we first had the nature of Sheena's cancer confimred. We were taken into a family room, and sat down. A nurse entered, and left a bag by the vacant chair that faced us, and said she'd be right back. Sheena made a joke about seeing what was in it. In due course the nurse returned and told us the bad news, and also outlined what would happen next. This was so important for us - there was so much to take in, but the nurse was kind, patient and explained everything as clearly as she could.

(C) Little Lifts

At the end of the conversation, the nurse took the bag and gave it to Sheena. It was a box in a tote bag that said 'Little Lifts'. This was for Sheena, and provided by a local charity. The box contained many helpful items for someone who was going to have chemo - from an ice lolly mould (keeping the mouth cool helps), to little treats like chocolate and cordial. There was a soft plastic cutlery set (again for the sensitive mouth), and a number of other bits and pieces - all of which were a delight. Seemed odd to be getting a present for having cancer, but it did exactly what it said on the box, and gave Sheena a little lift at a difficult time.

I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you to Little Lifts, they made a difference then, and are still doing so now for others. Cancer hasn't stopped because of Covid-19. If you get a chance, donate to your local cancer charity (or Little Lifts if you can). Thank you.

Useful links:
Little Lifts
Ipswich and Colchester Hospitals Blossom Appeal
Breast Cancer information
Bowel Cancer information

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