After 6 years and 5 fundraisers (one year missed because of Covid), we have now completed all the necessary tasks to allow us to say our annual gig and raffle in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support in NI is all wrapped up……. And what a gift it has been. Five fantastic nights, featuring music from the best in local rock bands, amazing raffle prizes. We’ve made new friends, seen the dream of The Riverbank Relatives Room become a reality in our local hospital, and raised an amazing
£28,314
for an important charity offering support to local cancer patients and their families.
My heart is full of love and pride for everyone involved. There is, of course, a degree of guilt that we’re stopping our fundraising, but it is small in comparison to the sense of relief. It’s hard work and takes a lot of pride swallowing to approach musicians, business owners, family, friends and colleagues, asking for support. Inevitably it was the same people that supported us year upon year.
So now it’s done. We can hold our heads up high whilst simultaneously resting back on our laurels a bit!
We already have plenty of adventures planned for 2024, but are slowing things down a wee bit. Almost permanent tinnitus is making loud gigs in small venues a bit more challenging for me. Not to mention the exhaustion and aches and pains I often feel after a late night……..especially when I get carried away and start making shapes on the dance floor!! Singing and dancing is a wonderful tonic, but care should be taken to avoid burnout!
I have been promised a face-to-face appointment after my next scan, due in the Spring/Summer. The Health Service is so under resourced, the waiting lists are unbelievable. I don’t want to increase the burden, but I obviously have questions about my condition and prognosis.
Come January we’ll be celebrating my seven year seizureversary. The rollercoaster ride remains somewhat turbulent, with wonderful highs and sometimes deep lows. I remain well supported, albeit by a much reduced number of people. I remember being cross with my dear dad when he told me “A lot of those you think are your friends, will disappear. People forget.” I thought he was being negative. Over the AD* years I’ve learnt he was being realistic and honest. Fortunately, the ones who’ve moved on to their next ‘project’ are not really missed because my life is too full of unbelievably supportive family and true friends.
Life remains good. Hubby and I work hard, which can be frustrating at times. Some days I’m fighting the urge to throw my head up, but the fact is that work pays the bills and funds the fun times! We’ve also learnt to prioritise a bit better.In January we will celebrate our 27th wedding anniversary and we couldn’t be happier.
Luckiest unlucky girl in the world 💚💚
*AD: after diagnosis, BC: before cancer
