Cat Therapy was published two years ago, and it has developed a life of its own.

I am tickled pink about this!

If you are one of my readers’ and my mini-memoir helped you in any way at all, know that it’s what I wanted. Cat Therapy was my way of reaching out. Archie, the feral ginger cat is still with me and although he is more domesticated these days, he reminds me of his wild side every now and again.

It’s been five years and a bit since this journey. I woke up this morning and decided to share the first chapter here on my blog.

… I am that girl. The one who never gets sick. I juggle balls like a pro and generally dance through life fairly effortlessly. People energize me, I love parties and gatherings and living life to the full. I am one of those annoying optimists, who preach positive thinking around every corner.

New adventures are exactly what I look forward to. Bring on exciting journeys, is a favourite motto. So for my birthday this year, I received a really unexpected one. Surprises are just my thing. But when I opened this particular present, my first thought was to return it. A dance with the big C was certainly not on my radar. It couldn’t be meant for me…

Any minute the gentle woman across the desk would realise that she’d made a mistake. She had the wrong file in front of her. It was probably the next patient’s. The doctor held  eye contact long enough for me to absorb what she was saying. A scan, biopsy, decisions about the way forward. My mind went into a speed wobble. It wasn’t me. She was talking about someone else. “Do you have any questions?” she asked. I fiddled with my bag as I tried to think of something vaguely intelligent. “No. At least not yet.”

The next few days went by in a blur of examinations. On Wednesday 7 August, my journey was made clear. The big C had appeared in my life. I bargained with God to let me take the other fork in the road. I promised that I’d learn all the lessons he wanted me to anyway. It wasn’t necessary for me to go that way. But it was not to be. I was already walking it. “Where are you now, Guardian Angels?” I sulked. I suppose I’m not much fun to protect when I’m throwing a tantrum. I’m hoping they’ll be back as soon as I’ve calmed down.

This is one of those play it by ear trips. I have no idea what to expect, so it will have to be seat of the pants stuff. I have done a little prep for the  journey (with my daughter’s help of course.) My new pink walking shoes are ready and some cuddly pjs are also neatly packed in a drawer. It’s probably about time to get real and reveal some things I’ve kept hidden so far. Pink really is my favourite colour. I’m not as brave as I pretend to be. I have white coat syndrome, no matter how nice the doctor is. I do believe in miracles and I do talk to God.

I think this tunnel is long and dark, but I have no doubt there is a light at the end of it. I’ve had a sneak preview and so I’m keeping it in my mind’s eye as I crawl along.  I’ll need you guys to keep shining the torch so that I can make my way towards it. Oh and have some bubbly on ice for when I emerge

I’ll keep you posted along the way!