Nov update

Latest new on the health, some science, and a huge personal win!

I imagine we’ve all heard people talk before about the need for distraction when fighting immense battles. As this year has progressed that’s certainly proven true here. The need for agency has been part of it as I wrote previously, but the mental distraction is also helpful.

I find with nothing to occupy me, my mind spirals and I can feel the cortisol (stress hormone) building. I find journaling is especially good here, when I take time to write the outlet reduces the stress. When I take action like working towards my future (the book is live on Amazon now!) the stress alleviates.

When I exercise I also find the stress alleviates. My aim now is to ensure I have at least two of those positive actions in every day, thus keeping stress and anxiety hormones at a lower level. High cortisol can have a bundle of other health impacts too, so by taking daily steps to balance it I not only feel better, I'm doing myself a favour physically too, and after months of Chemo that has to be worth doing.

On the health front, I’m starting another cycle of chemo this week, my last in the planned treatment. There will be more consultations and MRI’s to follow and there’s always the possibility that the specialist deems another round advisable, but just maybe, I’ll be done at this and that’ll give me a whole month for the brain fog to clear so I have some real clarity and a little more energy back for Christmas with the family.

As well as getting close to the end, I’ve also been out and about a little more this month, rebuilding that social muscle and catching up with friends in person. The surgery, Radio and Chemo all add up to a significant brain injury so it’ll take some time to rebuild the patterns and energy required to hit conferences and events in the way I used to, but making a start and seeing results does feel great!

Thanks to all those who’ve continued to support, every single message does bring a lift and they’re deeply appreciated. Onwards, to victory!