I have appendix cancer. Didn’t know that was a thing? Me either until I was diagnosed in May this year.
What I had tried passing off as mere flatulence turned out to be the same cancer that claimed screen great Audrey Hepburn. While it’s nice to be in such good company, I would have preferred her poise or beauty!
Having cancer is a roller coaster which has thrown life into disarray. So much is ‘life as usual’ but so much has changed too, for better and for worse.
Prior to cancer, doctors regularly reminded me I was overweight and at risk of weight-related illness – diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis. I laugh now because since being diagnosed, I’m constantly reminded that I am young, fit and healthy.
The unspoken part of the sentence of course is ‘for a cancer patient’.
So while this doesn’t mean I’ll be running a marathon any time soon, it does mean I’ve got a better chance with recovery from my impending surgery.
Add to that the expected weight loss from surgery and I might even look young, fit and healthy on the other side! First time for everything!
Naomi Evans is a Newcastle-based writer and editor.
Follow her story each week at newidea.com.au, and you can check out more at wordsandwhatnots.com.au.
You might also like:
Related stories
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
Native ad body.
