Being Grateful
Cultivating an attitude of gratitude
In March 2019 I was diagnosed with stage 3 womb cancer. I had to have radical hysterectomy, chemo and radiotherapy to treat it. Having a life-threatening illness made me value everyting I have so much more.
I am grateful for my family and partner
I moved to London when I was 19 and all my family are still in Finland. But that makes no difference; I know they are here to support me regardless of the distance.
I’m sure my parents would have preferred me to stay in Finland, but they never tried to discourage me from moving to London. They always fully supported and encouraged my siblings and I when we were growing up and provided us with lots of experiences and opportunities. I'm so grateful for that.
I am blessed to have such a wonderful sister and brother. There might have been times when we didn't get on when we were growing up, but now I couldn't wish for better siblings.
I’m grateful for my beautiful niece and nephew. They are both such loving and caring children. They bring so much light and happiness into our lives.
My partner Justin shares the number one spot with my family. If it weren’t for him, I probably would have packed my bags and gone home for my treatments regardless of the fact that The Royal Marsden is one of the top three cancer hospitals in the world. Finland has an excellent healthcare system, too, so I would still have been in expert hands. But I never needed to consider that option because of Justin.
He was absolutely amazing throughout and it can’t have been easy for him either. It is important to remember that serious illnesses have an enormous impact on those close to you, too.
I am grateful to have fabulous friends
When it comes to my friends, I have a strong, supportive network of friends.
Since my cancer diagnosis many have commented on how positive I am in my outlook. To them I say that it is easy to stay positive with all the love and support I get from family and friends.
can so grateful for all the fantastic friends I have both in London and back home.
I know my diagnosis was just as much a shock to my friends as it was to myself, Justin and my family. You just don’t expect someone of my age to be diagnosed with cancer, although the sad fact is that cancer affects people of all ages and many are developing cancer younger than before.
The incredibly dedicated doctors and nurses
I could not write an appreciation post without mentioning the wonderful NHS. I am so grateful to live in a country with such an excellent healthcare system. And not only is it excellent, it is also free for all.
I can never fully express my appreciation for all the doctors and nurses who have looked after me and continue to do so. I could not have received better care if I paid for it. I have experienced specialised doctors at one of the best cancer hospitals in the world in charge of my treatment.
And the nurses, I cannot praise them enough. They are so dedicated and caring. And they have such positive energy. This is so important, especially when dealing with a disease such as cancer.
And there is so much more to be grateful for
Other things that make the list of good things in my life is our flat with its balcony that allows us to do some urban gardening. I love our flat.
After years of living in flats with no outside space, it is great to have a balcony. We can now be outside without necessarily going somewhere. Something that was vital for our mental wellbeing doing the first lockdown!
I’m also grateful for my school and colleagues. They have been supportive through the treatment period when I was off work and following my return to work. I am so lucky for the opportunity to work there part time in a dream role doing intervention and some cover teaching because it means that I still have time and energy to focus on my writing, too.
I am grateful to have amazing things to look forward to like our cycle ride across Europe and fundraising for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
And, the is the big one, I am so extremely grateful and blessed to be cancer free now.
I am grateful for each and every day that I wake up.
About the Creator
R.S. Sillanpaa
Why is it so hard to write about myself? That's where I get writer's block!
In short, I am a writer, dreamer, and a cancer survivor writing about a wide range of things, fiction and non-fiction, whatever happens to interest and inspire me.
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Storm Clean-Up in ‘Full Swing’ on Channel Islands as Communities Begin Recovery
The Channel Islands are gradually returning to normal as large-scale clean-up operations move into full swing following one of the most disruptive storms in recent years. Powerful winds, heavy rain, and rough seas battered the islands, leaving behind damaged infrastructure, blocked roads, power outages, and coastal erosion. While the worst of the weather has passed, the aftermath has revealed the scale of destruction and the resilience of island communities determined to rebuild. Widespread Damage Across the Islands The storm struck with little mercy, uprooting trees, tearing off rooftops, and flooding low-lying areas. Coastal regions were particularly hard-hit as waves surged over sea defenses, damaging promenades, harbors, and marine facilities. In some areas, boats were torn from moorings, and debris was scattered across beaches and roads. Transport networks were severely disrupted. Fallen trees and landslides blocked key routes, while ferry services and flights were suspended at the height of the storm. Emergency crews worked around the clock to restore access, prioritizing routes needed for ambulances, utility vehicles, and supply deliveries. Power outages affected thousands of homes and businesses, with electricity lines damaged by falling trees and high winds. Water services were also temporarily disrupted in some areas, adding to the challenges faced by residents. Emergency Response and Clean-Up Efforts Local authorities, emergency services, and utility companies mobilized quickly once conditions allowed. Councils across the Channel Islands activated emergency response plans, deploying crews to clear debris, assess structural damage, and restore essential services. Public works teams have been focusing on clearing roads, repairing streetlights, and securing damaged public buildings. Utility companies report significant progress in restoring electricity, with most households now reconnected, though isolated areas continue to face delays due to difficult terrain and ongoing safety assessments. Volunteers have also played a crucial role. Community groups, local businesses, and residents have joined clean-up efforts, helping neighbors clear gardens, remove debris, and check on vulnerable individuals. This collective response has highlighted the strong sense of solidarity that defines island life. Impact on Businesses and Daily Life The storm has taken a toll on local businesses, particularly those in tourism, fishing, and retail. Shops, cafes, and hotels suffered water damage and lost revenue due to forced closures. Fishermen reported damaged equipment and lost fishing days, raising concerns about longer-term economic impacts. Schools in some areas were closed temporarily due to safety concerns, including fallen trees and structural inspections. While many have since reopened, education authorities continue to monitor conditions to ensure student safety. Residents have described the experience as frightening but have also expressed relief that no widespread loss of life was reported. For many, the focus has now shifted from survival to recovery and preparedness for future extreme weather events. Coastal Concerns and Climate Questions The storm has reignited debate about coastal protection and climate resilience. Experts warn that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, posing growing risks to island communities. Erosion along coastlines has raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of sea defenses. Local governments are now under pressure to invest in stronger infrastructure, improved drainage systems, and better early-warning mechanisms to reduce the impact of future storms. Environmental assessments are underway to evaluate damage to natural habitats, including beaches, dunes, and marine ecosystems. Conservation groups stress the importance of balancing recovery efforts with environmental protection. Looking Ahead: Recovery and Resilience While clean-up operations remain ongoing, officials emphasize that recovery will take time. Structural repairs, insurance claims, and environmental restoration could stretch over months. Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious, avoid unsafe areas, and report hazards such as unstable trees or damaged buildings. Despite the challenges, the response to the storm has underscored the resilience of the Channel Islands. The rapid mobilization of services, combined with community cooperation, has helped limit long-term disruption and speed up recovery. As the islands rebuild, the storm serves as a reminder of nature’s power and the need for preparedness in an era of changing climate patterns. For now, with clean-up efforts in full swing, the Channel Islands are focused on restoring normal life—stronger, wiser, and more united than before.
By Fiazahmedbrohi a day ago in Longevity
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