October 2022
I can't believe it is now almost one year since starting chemo treatment!
This week, I was privileged to watch the basketball league final games of both my grandson and granddaughter, who are both avid players.
I was reminded whilst watching, that over the past year, I have had many setbacks due to being unwell and not feeling able to do what I wanted.
During the game, my granddaughter tried aiming for the basket on many occasions - most of which, she managed to score ( to the excitement of her team!) and I must admit, whilst seeing her standing some distance from the net, I had thoughts of ' I am not sure she will get it in from that far distance!' Whether it went in or not, she was willing to have a try anyway! My grandson, too, managed a few baskets for his team ( finally winning the league!)
A very proud grandparent afternoon all round! 👍
Many times throughout the past year, I have questioned my own abilities ; The 'distance' from the goals seemed too far away;
Will I ever run a 10k again? I struggled the first time I went on a short run😢
Will I ever get back to my former weight? I now have ONE stone to lose after being inactive for six months.😢
Will I ever get back to presenting my book to large groups ? ('The A to Z of declutter' is a book I wrote some time ago, and I visited several groups before the start of chemo.) 😢
I picked up a book that I read a while ago 'Feel the fear and do it anyway' by Susan Jeffers and it reminded me that the best way to confront your fears, is to 'just do it'! There really IS no easy way, apart from getting up and giving it a try.
Like my granddaughter, I have managed to try anyway, even if I do miss that 'basket'. With help from two good accountability partners, I have so far lost 10 lb and ran 3 k and contacted a few organisers re. speaking dates. Again, I have had help designing a brochure for this purpose.
As with all team games, this team of basketball players all supported each other throughout the game. Often, we need help from others to succeed. If you are struggling to face a challenge ( losing weight, is quite a common one!) maybe find your 'team' i.e. a friend or friends to whom you can be accountable. Our weekly 'weigh-in' keeps me focused on my reasons for starting this.
Maybe like the basket, your 'goal' seems too far into the future, you don't think it's worthwhile even trying ? Just go for it, and at least make a start!
Since finishing chemo, I seem to have had all 'Fresh starts' and I have managed to embrace them, albeit slowly.
Many times, we can assume things are not worth a try - many people often comment ' I could never run like you' but these same people have never had a try !
I will continue with the scans at the hospital, as and when I am requested, and continue to keep fit and healthy as much as possible.
If I don't manage another 10k run, at least I have had a try and aimed for my ' basket' !🏀
