I’m a Celebrity Get Me out of Here!

Wednesday 28^th Nov 12

Another busy week at Camp Thomas – Mum and I have to have a morning meeting to discuss the days plans!

Since featuring in the B&R paper last week, I’ve been approached by other media sources and have today appeared on a few national online papers, including The Sun and Daily Mail Online. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2239704/Topshop-assistant-24-discovers-harmless-lump-actually-rare-cancer-30-cases-world.html 

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/4670244/Girls-golf-ball-sized-lump-on-head-is-rare-bone-cancer.html#comment-rig 

I might be in print form tomorrow! Glad to say it won’t be page 3! I’ve agreed to do this as I hope to receive some money for any magazines who wish to run my story and donate it to a cancer charity.

Mum has been a bit worried at the prospect of becoming a celebrity. The morning after being photographed for the paper there was a knock at the door. Not expecting anybody and still in her dressing gown, she answered the door anxiously, expecting the paparazzi! Luckily for her, it was only the gas workman wanting her to move the car due to works outside!

I have now completed my fertility treatment. Glad to say the injections are over, think Florence has been getting worse not better at giving them, even jabbing me twice on one occasion! On Monday I had a small operation under general anaesthetic to collect my eggs. They got 9 in total which they said was great!

Had the PICC line put in last Thursday, my arm’s starting to get used to it now. I have purchased a lovely shower sleeve to protect it when washing. The hospital has said that I can’t play golf or tennis, a shame really I was hoping to take part in the Ryder Cup! Whilst waiting to have my line put it, I met a guy called Adam who comes onto the ward twice a week to give guitar lessons. Whilst waiting for my appointment he persuaded me to have a go! Britain’s Got Talent here I come!

I also had a CT scan last night, results to follow next week. Mum and friend Libby came with me for support, Libby was the most supportive chanting ‘down in one’ as I proceeded to drink a large jug of fluid containing dye (to show up the scan more clearly) the staff had fetched me! It wasn’t too pleasant, felt a bit like a bush tucker trial! It was really the second trial I’d done that week - Mum had already produced a baked banana for my pudding one evening. It’s fair to say it looked like a giant maggot and I couldn’t get it down! I think I might be the Helen Flanagan of the camp! Mum was a much better candidate, wolfing it down! Being the one doing most of the cooking, having a bossy nature and the way she looks in a swimming costume, perhaps she deserves a new nickname of Rosemary Shrager?! She’s already halfway there with her middle name being Rosemary!

Afterwards I was instructed to change into a hospital gown and had to place my clothes in a shopping basket. Emerging from the cubicle still with hat on and basket in hand, I looked like I was on the strangest Asda shop ever! Was planning on going to a make-over day at the Young Persons Unit today (where I’m going to have my treatment), however I was a bit unwell this afternoon and couldn’t attend. I think it could be from the scan injections, although Mum thinks it could be all that Milk Tray we scoffed last night!

Friends have been as great as ever – met Char in town last Saturday for a coffee, had flowers sent from an old friend Lucy and both Libby and Dani have called over. Libby brought me a lovely ‘travel box’ – ready for our adventures when we’ve actually managed to save enough money!

Starting chemotherapy treatment tomorrow – not a day I’ve been particularly looking forward to, although the sooner I start the sooner it will all be over. I’ll be in for three nights and hope to be out Sunday. Hopefully I’ll react ok and I can update you on here as to how it’s going.

Thanks everyone for your continued support throughout this journey so far. I’ve found writing this blog has been a great way to reach everyone and keep a record of everything I’ve been going through. Sometimes it’s been tough, but with your support I know I’ll get there in the end. If I’m lucky perhaps I’ll be crowned Queen of the Jungle!

 

JAH-MAZING!

Last Friday Mum and I hit the shops at The Bullring, Birmingham, with the sole intention of finding a suitable ‘evening hat’ for wearing Sunday night in the X Factor studio. But before any shopping could commence, an obligatory photo was needed with the other tourists at the famous bull. It was almost as good as Builth’s!

In H&M (the first shop we visited) we found just the one – a plain black beanie, discreet enough to wear indoors. I quite liked it in the neon green; however I thought I’d stand out a Belisha Beacon! It probably would have caught Olly and Dermie’s eyes, however not in a good way! In true woman style we perused the shops for around four hours, trying on hats in every size, shape and colour until returning to the first shop to purchase the first one we’d seen! In Gok style I decided to buy some hair accessories to customise it.

The next day I was out again, this time with my Uni friend Rachael (Orsy). Our first stop Cafe Nero for coffee and a catch-up, followed by Pizza Hut for lunch and afternoon refreshments at M&S! I think the main reason we’re friends is because we both have a love of food! Remember those roast dinners in our student days Rach ;) In between eating I did manage to buy a dress from Topshop for Sunday nights X Factor performance. Good job I’ve got some magic knickers as I thought I might need them after all that food!

And so it arrived! The day we’d been waiting for – in Dermie’s words ‘It’s time for the X Factor – The Results!’ We made our way to the Wembley Studio, North London, finding ourselves third in the queue at the Production Guests entrance. Although it was cold and we were waiting for over an hour outside, luckily we were kept entertained by a ‘street dancer’ – a strange character who proceeded to moonwalk up and down the pavement, spin around the lampposts and shout out on several occasions whilst practising his moves. I hasten to add he didn’t work for the X factor! Notably this daredevil figure sidestepped into the road numerous times, once nearly getting squished by a bus – we were quite worried about him but in fact this all added to the excitement of his performance! Louis also popped his head out of the door exclaiming, “Where is he?” We presumed he must have lost a member of Union J – mum told him she’d step in if needed as the show must go on!

Wearing my new sparkly dress meant that the Bridget Jones’ were in actual fact required! But as all the girls out there will know, they can be a bit on the restrictive side! So into my mum’s bag went a smaller pair! But unfortunately for her, five minutes before the doors opened we realised our bags would be searched! That was it, we were creased with laughed and panicking as to what we should do with them! What we did is for us to know and you to find out!

Once finally inside we were ushered into our seats. Looking around at other members of the audience, I recognised someone I’d seen on the TV. Star struck, I said loudly, “Oh that’s Christopher Maloney’s Nan there!” Hearing me she turned around, smiled and waved! The Production Guests were allowed into the bar after the show to hang out with the contestants. I was lucky enough to meet Rylan and Christopher Maloney and get pictures of James Arthur and Union J too. You could have easily mistaken Mum and me for two 15 year old girls, the way we were getting excited! Chris Morgan who had given us the tickets came for a chat and I thanked him once again for his kind gesture. Both Mum and I thoroughly enjoyed the show; it was a welcome break from life’s realities and a chance to let our hair down (well Mum’s at least!!)

Monday morning and reality was soon upon us again, as another fertility injection beckoned. We left the hotel early to get back to our morning appointment, at the QE hospital for a fertility scan. Pleased to say everything is going well so far, just started second injection with next appointments Wednesday and Friday. On Monday I also had an appointment with a member of Dr Spooner’s team, to discuss when I’m able to start chemotherapy. All being well this will commence Thursday next week. Having a permanent line put in this Thursday in preparation for treatment and also awaiting another body scan which is to take place shortly.

Today I can also reveal which newspaper I will be staring in! It’s my local paper - for those who don’t know, it’s called the Brecon & Radnor Express. I was approached by a friend who works as a Journalist for the paper, Matthew Jones - better known to his friends and family as Jabba. He had seen my blog and thought that the way I had been documenting my cancer journey would make an interesting article. After posting the link on his Twitter account, his News Editor also read it and asked him to see whether I would like them to run a story. After deliberating for a few days I agreed, deciding that if I can help to inspire even just one person through my tale, then it was worth doing. We had a telephone interview enabling him to get some quotes and to build up a bigger picture of all that I’d been going through. For those interested, the paper will be in the shops tomorrow. So for coming up with your material and making your job easy this week Jabba, I think you owe me a few Jagerbombs when I see you out next!

Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Freezer

Writing this post from my new living room – moved into the Birmingham pad last Saturday and its coming together and starting to feel like home. I had lots of help when moving in – thanks to Mum, Dad, Kenny and the girls for all your hard work. Bought some new bedroom furniture from IKEA today to house all my clothes! Some might say I’ve got a few too many!

Not one to do things by half, I moved house and had a party the same night! Enjoyed the onesie party Saturday night girls, hope you did too! Think staying in will have to become the new going out! More friends visiting this weekend which I’m looking forward to - couldn’t get through this without your support.

My new roomie is also settling in well, she has the smaller of the two bedrooms (unlucky!) but she’s doing ok with her single bed, bookcase and computer desk! Anybody would think she’s in Uni accommodation! In preparation for her Fresher’s Week I sent her to the off-license (which is conveniently opposite our house) for a bottle. I’m sorry to say she came back with some milk. Unfortunately I think her idea of a drink is a hot non-alcoholic beverage! We’ve also talked about having some ground rules, no parties, no loud music and must help out with the chores. But if she breaks them it’s ok, I can always send her to her room!

I’ve received some more cards and presents since last week, thanks again to everyone who has thought about me. The Olly Murs card from Sarah at George is probably my favourite! Will take it with me Sunday ;) Thanks also to Matt my boss from George who came to visit me before I left Rugby – nice to catch up and all the best in your new role. Amongst the presents were a few Topshop gift cards - on that note perhaps a bigger wardrobe may have been more appropriate!

Mum and I both received some lovely letters from my aunty/Godmother Jayne (Mum’s sister) this week – Mum opened hers and became quite emotional. I think she’s feeling homesick but I’ve told her she’s got to give it until Christmas!

First appointment of the week was with a girl called Sarah, at the Young Persons Unit at the QE. The meeting was to discuss a wig, which I’m having after my head has healed. It means a couple of trips to a Manchester salon – the guy charges around £600 for a hair cut so hopefully he’s good at styling wigs!

On Tuesday I had an appointment with the plastic surgeon who carried out my surgery. When I was booked in I found out I was number 2017 and thought maybe I was in for a long wait! Soon after they announced that anybody with appointments for the Red team would be delayed by an hour and a half and anybody for the Blue team would be delayed by an hour. Not knowing which team I was in I went to the desk to ask, unfortunately I felt rejected when I was told I wasn’t in either, not even on the subs bench! Fortunately 10 minutes later my number was called and the bad game of bingo was over. The surgeon was pleased with how my head’s healing which is really good news. He greeted me with the news that my horn had shrunk, but smiled and said that maybe he could get it back for next Halloween!

Started my fertility treatment today, have to draw up and inject myself in the stomach or leg for around 10 days until my eggs are ready to be collected. Unfortunately ‘Florence’ was unable to carry out her duties as she looked a bit peaky at the sight of the needle. Luckily Dad being well used to giving injections was able to save the day!

On a final note, I’ve also been approached by the press this week, who want to run a story in relation to my blog. I’ve been liaising with their reporter about having exclusivity on my story and pictures! Can’t say who this is at the moment, but watch this space!

What a Reaction!

Well, what can I say?! Thank you all so much for all the lovely messages about my blog telling me how brave, honest and inspirational I am! Your support means everything to me through this difficult time. And thank you for sharing it with your friends and friends of friends – I’ve racked up near enough 2,000 views on it to date! Pretty incredible! Just to let you all know, my good friend Dani is still trying to work on Olly Murs viewing it by tweeting him! Love it! Speaking of which, big shout out to Chris Price-Morgan for generously offering me 2 X Factor tickets for Sunday 18^th November, after reading my first blog post. Can’t flipping wait, please all look out for me and Mum in the audience! Thanks Chris!

So it’s been another busy week - pretty standard for me at the moment! Last Monday 5^th November I had an appointment with Dr Spooner, a consultant at the Oncology Department at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham. I keep wanting to refer to him as Dr Soaper (Carry on Camping) for some reason! Anyway.... he’s a top man in his field – making me grateful to be receiving the best knowledge and treatment but also nervous as my case is being seen by the best, I know it’s very serious.

Just like the kids returning to school after a half term, I was feeling apprehensive about going back to Birmingham and what the latest appointment would bring. What would the consultant be like and what news was he going to deliver?

I needn’t have worried though as he was a lovely man and I was there to discuss my chemo and radio treatment plan. He explained that I will be treated over the next 9 months – 6 sessions of chemo (using 4 drugs) every 3 weeks, for around 3 nights at a time in hospital. He drew out diagrams to illustrate his points; thank god he became a consultant and not an artist though, as his drawing skills have a lot to be desired!

It’s also been my birthday this week – turned the big 24! Had loads of lovely cards and messages, not so many great presents! Mum promised me a dog, this has yet to materialise!! A personal shout out to Luke Dewinton for 32p (found in his and Becca’s card) specifically requested to be spent on Pick ‘n’ Mix – fantastic! I also know you’re keen for another mention on here when you’ve spent some time nursing me upon your return! Take note you’ll have to be super nice to me then and shower me with gifts to get a photo published too! The best present I received was probably a letter from Becca, which arrived a few days before my birthday. It was very heartfelt and touching, love you sis xx. She also sent a lovely bracelet.

Moving house is also on the cards – a move of mixed emotions. Signed and got the keys on Monday, have got off to a good start and managed to put up six lampshades! Still in Rugby packing up the help of Mum, ready to fully move on Saturday with the help of Dad, Uncle and Godfather Kenny and great friends Lisa and Dani. Thanks in advance as I should probably mentioned there are a lot of clothes to unpack! But maybe not as many as you’ve got Lisa... ;)

Well that’s it for now, lots still to pack so best get on....over and out!

The Beginning...

Last Christmas I was a happy go lucky young girl, living in Cardiff and working for Topshop as a Top Level Sales Advisor at their Cardiff branch, aspiring to use my Fashion Marketing & Communication degree to its full potential. It’s also when I first discovered a spot on my head. I hadn’t thought much of it, but decided to keep an eye on it anyway. Over the next 7 months the ‘spot’ grew to the size of a golf ball.

 

Misdiagnosed by three doctors as a cyst and then by a consultant as a low flow vascular malformation, it was only in August 2012 after having an MRI scan and operation at Coventry University Hospital to remove it, that I was told it had come back as cancerous - a rare form of Sarcoma, with only 25 - 30 cases in the world. A shocking revelation and hard to take in, especially only being 23 years old. My Dad had also had cancer in 2007 of the throat – to his relief my cancer was totally unrelated. He had been given his five year sign off earlier in the year.

By this time I was now settling into a new role as a Digital Marketing Assistant for George at Asda, Lutterworth - a really interesting job with fantastic colleagues and prospects for the future.

Following my diagnosis a full body PET CT scan was carried out, which came showing something in my neck. An ultrasound later revealed that nothing could now be found. A huge relief to know the cancer hadn’t spread.

Following a number of consultations at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, Birmingham an operation was finally carried out in October 2012 to remove the entire tumour and perform a skin graft in order to obtain a clear margin. My red hair no more – the surgeon gave me a delightful hair cut (I now have a shaved head!) and he also proceeded to give me a ‘horn’ for some reason! (Although this is now going down and at least I was ready for Halloween, although some might say this was a bit extreme for a costume!). On the bright side I’m saving time not having to do my hair each morning and I haven’t had any bad hair days! Hats are my new best friend too. I’ve bought a few myself, had some made and others bought by family and friends.

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are also now necessary (over the next 6 -12 months) to make sure any cancer cells are wiped out of my body. Discovering the time length of these treatments I have decided to move to Birmingham to be closer to the hospital, meaning giving up my ‘quirky’ little flat in Rugby I’d grown to call home. My mum has kindly agreed to come and live with me to support and help me through this difficult time. Thankfully her bosses John and Sally of Cribs Clothing have been very supportive and agreed to give her as much time off as she needs.
 

I’ve always said it would be nice to have a flatmate and now I’ve got one! Be careful what you wish for! Haha only joking Mum! A woman that seems to be the target for all nicknames and jokes, the latest names for her are ‘Florence’ (as in ‘Florence Nightingale’ and her new career in nursing) and ‘Hoverman’ (courtesy of TOWIE and the fact she now continuously worries and hovers around me!!)

I have been so lucky to receive a tremendous amount of support from family and friends following my journey so far and I have no doubt it will continue and grow in the coming months. People have been so generous with flowers, cards, presents and so many messages that I’ve honestly struggled to keep up with! But it’s been lovely to know that I’m always being thought about. The George Dot.com team sent me a lovely ‘Pamper Hamper’ the other day – included were a kindle, yes kindle! A onesie, make-up and a whole host of lovely treats! What more could I have asked for?! They’ve been so great through all this and said I’ll have a job at the end of it even if it means moving departments. I thought well I’d be ok on the meat counter at Asda - at least then I could wear a hat!!
 

My family have also been fab – Mum and Dad ferrying me to all the hospital appointments and supporting me through it all. My sister and her boyfriend although the other side of the world (only booking their five month trip just before I was diagnosed) talking of cancelling their trip, which I was strongly against or now coming home at a moment’s notice. And even when they’re back coming to look after me in Birmingham to give Mum some respite or even working in the shop to continue Mum’s job.    

My friends have also been great too – manicures and pedicures, hospital visits, country walks, long chats and a cuppa, lots of sweets & chocolates and of course endless jokes (especially Michael Macintyre and the hospital gown!!).

Its funny how many people also come forward with their own personal stories of cancer, sometimes from those who you didn’t even know had been diagnosed with the disease. I’ve also met lovely people in hospital also undergoing cancer treatment, who I hope to keep in touch with. Some of the other cases certainly put yours into perspective. At least I can still see and walk around – I’m a lucky one in that respect.

Fertility treatment is also something I’ve had to consider as unfortunately a side effect of chemotherapy can be infertility. Fortunately I have been told I have got time to freeze my eggs before I begin radio/chemo. It’s lucky that this process is now in place – four/five years ago only fertilised eggs could be frozen, still Olly Murs if you’re reading this please feel free to get in touch with your donation! I’ve also been awarded funding for it! Fantastic news as this would have cost nearly £3000! If the ‘Grandparents’ had paid, don’t think the babies would have received any money in their Christmas cards!!

So now I’ve T’d off with the story so far, it’s now time to jump into the buggy and drive to that next appointment...let’s hope it’s a hole in one!