HEALTH UPDATE
When I started this blog five years ago I could only dream of writing this post….
I have very recently received a letter from the hospital saying:
Your CT scan was reported this afternoon and reassuringly there is no evidence of recurrence or metastatic disease.
Put simply, my body was scanned and there were no signs that I have cancer. This scan was supported by two “normal” blood test results.
In the cancer community the five-year milestone is significant. First, because of something called the “five year survival rate” (which tracks the survival rates of different cancers, from diagnosis up to the five year point). Second, because the likelihood of the same cancer returning following five years of good test results is very very low. It is quite a psychological shift reaching this point.
I don’t know if anyone still reads this blog (why would they when I’m terrible at updating it?!). But, if you’ve stumbled across it while searching for cancer survivor stories, then this is written with you in mind. I’ve trawled the web many times looking for survivor stories and I’m well aware of the hope they can bring. I’m pleased to now add this one to the collection.
I’m very consious that I’m one of the lucky ones. However, I don’t think it would be wise to say it’s entirely down to luck. There’s also been a lot of hard work behind the scenes to change my diet and lifestyle (with the phenomenal support of my amazing wife) and I have no doubt that this has played a huge part in my recovery.
In support of this belief, I was issued with a ‘Medical Exemption Certificate’ in 2018 (see the cover image for this blog post). This meant I could enjoy free medical prescriptions for five years. Woohoo, bonus! But… I did not use it (or need it) once. My test results have been consistently great and my annual flexi-sigmoidoscopies (i.e. a camera inside) have been so clear that my consultant has moved them from annual to 18-monthly.
A change in diet and lifestyle has certainly not done any harm and I plan to write more on that another time.
RETREAT UPDATE
I mentioned in a previous blog that my wife and I have been trying to set up a cancer retreat at our home in Cornwall, offering respite breaks for young parents affected by cancer. We received wonderful letters of support from the Royal Cornwall Hospital, the Penny Brohn Cancer Centre in Bristol and Yeovil Hospital. However, sadly, Cornwall Council refused our plans.
We planned to convert some neglected block barns into respite accommodation, but the council judged this to be unsuitable development in the open countryside.
As countryside lovers we would have been able to accept that reason, if it weren’t for the fact that a development of 3,500 new homes was approved the same week as our rejection, on open farmland just a couple of miles away from us! To add to the disappointment, permisson was granted for two new-build holiday lodges in the woodland opposite our house.
Oh the mysteries of the planning system!
But, there remains a glimmer of hope. Our architects were so suprised that we did not receive planning permission that they are in the process of appealing the decision, currently at their expense. We started this process nearly three years ago, so I hope to have better news to share on that front in the very near future.
THE FUTURE OF THIS BLOG
I don’t know how long I will keep this blog ‘open’. However, there are two posts which I feel I must write before I stop.
First, I have lost count of the number of times that people have asked me about what I have been eating and drinking as part of my ‘cancer healing journey’. I’ve promised several people I will write about that.
Second, I will attempt to answer the question “what do you think caused your cancer?” This is an interesting question that is often asked by people who have gone through cancer and I now feel able to answer that with more clarity.
So, until next time.
With love and gratitude,
Wil.x
What a great update Wil and I’m hopeful for your retreat development and the people who are backing you guys to keep pushing forward. I can see how close to your heart and journey, this project is now and I’m sorry we didn’t get to see it in person. Lovely catching up with you on the weekend and thank you for your continued friendship. Well done bro. I’m looking forward to hearing what the future holds for you and your family. Love the Colquhouns.
Thanks so much Zane. It was great to chat to you the other day and we’re wishing you guys all the best for the move back to SA. I look forward to keeping in touch and hearing about your next adventure!
Hi Wil, so blessed by your blog and praise God you are cancer free
What beautiful news, Wil! I celebrate with you this wonderful 5 year milestone and trust for many more to come! Much love, Lindsay
Thanks Linsday. Thanks for the message – it’s great to hear from you. I hope life is treating you really well. I hope our paths will cross again sometime soon!
You’ve done well being disciplined with diet & lifestyle; the NHS is good; & God is great!
Hope to see you all sooner than later!
Ah Ren! Always great to hear from you mate. Thank you! Summer 2024 here again… we’re working on the plans! 🙂
Although not very vocal, but a devout follower of your blog. Elated to hear the great news, best of luck with your development, and wishing you continued success on your life’s journey. Please send love to your lovely wife x
Thanks Jane! It was so good to get your message. I often think fondly of the old woodland school time and I hope you guys are all well. Thanks for keeping in touch.
Great news, Wil! I do hope that your plans work out – love to you and the family xx
Thanks Nicky! You’re so good at keeping in touch – I really appreciate it. I hope all is well with you and I look forward to hearing how the Germans are doing, soon! x
Fab news Will. Looking forward to the next instalment. Much love to you all.
Brilliant to hear from you Karen! Thank you for your message. I hope you and the other Mellors are all well. I’m imaginging the bluebells are starting to appear around KL about now? x