The end is nigh

30/10/2014

"Tears are words from the heart that can't be spoken"

It is my last night at the Lions Cancer Lodge in Hamilton. The last five weeks have flown by.

I have met amazing people from all walks of life courageously getting on with the business of being treated for cancer.

Of note at the Lodge, which is a fantastic asset and God-send to those going through this process of being away from home, we have all been treated equally regardless of race, colour or financial means. 

I am grateful of the support of fellow lodgers who will talk honestly and share their experiences about Cancer till the cows come home. We always, always managed to laugh - always!

At the lodge a volunteer comes in and
does our nails for a gold coin donatio

The radiation medical team have treated me with compassion and kindness. I was known as the 'special one' (due to some body parts that had to be strategically placed). They always made the experience a good one.

All in all I have been truly blessed.

Now I need to regain and rebuild strength - both physical and emotional and take the time to reflect, putting the experience of cancer in its right place in my life. For months, it has dominated, been in control. Now is time to begin the long, slow process of putting it in the right box in my life - not forgetting about it, not denying its importance or power, not pretending it didn't happen, but getting on with where my life left off some 10 months ago.

If I have learnt anything, anything at all, it is this.  
- I am strong, stronger than I ever, ever thought I was and faith was a major reason for this
- I have an amazing supportive husband who deserves 'Husband of the Year' title
- I never want to forget the kindness of others, this has been overwhelming.

Time for me and Greg to head home

Bless you friends and family, and prayer warriors, and colleagues who have been there for me and Wayne, Luke  and Christine  It's been a hell of a learning curve and through it all God has been right there with us, carrying us and teaching us to never give up the faith.

Kia Kaha (thanks to my sister-in-law Annie - It is so true).