Thursday 17 November 2016

Chelsea and Westminster

I was at Chelsea and Westminster hospital yesterday maybe for the last time, unless I come back to London. This facility has been a big part of my life for the past 3 and a half years or so, almost a second home if you can believe that. I've spent many days confined or getting chemo or other treatments and endless diagnostics here. There was a time where the only place I could go was the hospital and the hospice - in a medical transport. I never got used to the CT scan, or the X-rays, I dreaded cannulas! I'm glad that part is over. I've dealt with unbelievable pain and the tears I've shed can fill deep buckets! It's quite a journey! The oncology team and the caring staff at Chelwest have been really supportive. They have been there for me throughout the ups and downs, during the bleak prognosis I get, during the little victories I achieve. 
thumbs up for making it through over a year of chemo
As the car drove away I caught a glimpse of the window of the room I was in for 8 days during the first cycle, I just cringe and recall that time, when I was in there almost lifeless. I've been confined so many times, each time in critical condition. I can't help but be emotional when I see patients being moved around on their hospital beds to diagnostics and their room, I was that patient three years ago, I always got picked up by hospital transport, wheeled into the chemo ward and wheeled in my hospital bed throughout the facility wherever I needed to go. It seemed like I didn't have a chance at that point. I felt like a rag doll being tossed all over the place. My stay at the chemo ward was always pleasant, of course the treatment itself was torture but they were all very nice, and very complementary. I can't say anything bad about the staff, they are sweet sweet people, thank you. I know it's been a journey for them too, seeing me go up and down my ride of a lifetime, my consultant mentioned he's learned a lot from me too and that makes me happy. I hope he didn't mean that giving his email out isn't a good idea for patients like me :) My only complain, was the unhealthy food they serve, but all hospitals serve the same crap don't they? My oncologist and his team have been amazing I can't thank them enough. Tom and Chantale thank you so very much.But, now I've got to move on, chemo is not the path I want to take now. I need all the luck in the world! And a big big helping of prayers! 
Inside Chelsea and Westminster Hospital 
last day of chemo January 8, 2015




With everything that has happened to you, you can either feel sorry for yourself, or treat what has happened as a gift. Everything is either an opportunity to grow, or an obstacle to keep you from growing
You Get To Choose!
- Wayne Dyer



Caroline Reyes-Loughrey Photography