But it is only September....

2017's attempt

 

2016's look

For the past few years, I have approached November with a bit of a sigh.  Andrew has taken on the challenge of Movember – growing a moustache to raise awareness and fundraising for prostate cancer.  The hairy upper lip is not my favourite look on him to be honest, and he hams it up by choosing outrageous styles which he cultivates with great care.  I count the 30 days and tolerate this hirsute project.  But this year, I will not sigh, because this year it is personal.

Andrew was diagnosed with prostate cancer in March.  It has thrown us all a bit, not least him.  I can write about it now, because in July he had surgery to remove the prostate and on Monday we got the good news that he is probably clear.  Sometimes, whilst enduring something awful, I find it easier just to shut up and bottle it all in.  When the crisis is looking less threatening I can articulate how it was – that is just the way I am.  The surgery went well – Andrew’s doctor is one of the few trained and skilled in robotic surgery for the prostatectomy.  So instead of a very long scar down his abdomen, he has five smaller wounds.  He was booked off work for four weeks and – for someone who uses every second of every day –  I was a little surprised and grateful that he slept for most of it. 

It is hard to describe what it feels like to watch a partner fall ill with a dread disease.  Lots of things spring to mind: Like all the dreams and unfulfilled projects that we really should have given more time to: Like what is really important in life and how important balance is;  Like are we practically equipped to deal with illness.

We had a policy – we would tackle whatever was thrown at us together.  So I go with to all the doctor’s and physiotherapist’s appointments, make notes and talk about all the possibilities with him.

There has been a lot of sadness this year, and a lot to cope with. 

This November I will embrace the month of the moustache with much more enthusiasm.  Andrew has been very good about spreading the word to all people who will listen – Men- get your annual PSA level checked.  Take your health seriously.  There is nothing embarrassing about body parts and functions.  Talk about things.

I am very grateful for the skill of the medical community in Cape Town.  Andrew’s next check up is in 6 weeks.  We are hoping the good news continues and we can breathe a little easier.  Both this cancer scare and TD’s diabetes have made me realize we shouldn’t take health for granted.  

Carpe diem, and all that…..