December 2024

It's been bit of a mixed year, beginning with the hopes of having retired and getting away bit more but the brakes where put on early, after my yearly long term medical and a follow up blood test being abnormal meant I needed re-tests followed by more tests a scan and then a MRI scan. I had a sinister growth on one kidney but not calling it cancer yet. On the 22nd October I had kidney removed and growth which when tested was Cancer but localised on kidney. Now on a 6 month review.

Having now being a cancer sufferer it does make life a little more precious. Waking up in the morning is a bonus these days. After the operation my recovery time was very short or so it seemed. Up and around after just 1 week getting out with the Poppy appeal. But after 3 weeks I got the virus which brought my life to almost standstill. Breathing was a big issue Asthma at its worse for a long time, plus energy levels at zero. Having a kidney removed was so much easier to recover from.

It took till Christmas to be at 75% and by the new year to be 90% still under doctors orders and ongoing tests to find my new normal after operation.

And during this the Poppy Appeal went ahead and £22500 was raised by the team.

On the plus side did manage to get away during the year Potters in February, Lochs and Glens March, Torquay April, North Norfolk Railway in May, Alcudia June (3 weeks), Days trips August and September (5) and lastly Gunton Hall again in September in total 42 away days. A record hopefully to be beaten.

Been a year of mixed emotions to say the least, but still around, ok little more slowly but get there in the end. My asthma is more problematic but on a new puffer now, just need to remember to take twice daily 2 puffs.... Plus bit of a cocktail of pills now, morning afternoon some before some after meals and why do the same pill change shape colour now never used too.

Tis the season to be Merry but still suffering from flu like virus been far to long. Weather not helping cold wet damp grey brrrrrr. So its been bit of a year onto 25 and me being 21 and bit more.

Happy New Year

Colin