Surviving Breast Cancer Now!

I have never believed anybody who claims to have hundreds of friends. Friends are a treasure to be valued high above rubies and true, loyal friends are a very rare commodity. It is when times get tough that you really realise who your friends are. After the operation, word of my breast cancer spread amongst those I know quickly. I was truly overcome by the kindness, love, affection and support shown to me. The cards, flowers and chocolates given to me were lovely. Even more overwhelming were the phone calls, texts and visits.

When all of a sudden frailty struck and I had to accept the possibility of my own mortality, it was rather nice to know that there are those who care.

I received many lovely cards too. The living room of the house was so finely decorated by all these lovely things that the flowers given to me by friends at my book group and the local poetry group were displayed in the bedroom window.

There was only one problem. My disease had been found early in a scan. I had not had any symptoms. I had never felt ill, indeed, I was not aware I was ill. So I felt completely unworthy of all the good wishes I was receiving. I felt like a complete fraud. .

My sister and brother-in-law even came drove across the country to have lunch with my husband and me. Both their cars were out of action so they had to hire a car to spend time with us. What dedication to duty! How generous and kind!  We met for lunch at The Rowan Tree Restaurant, Ardrossan, Scotland. Have a look st a review of that restaurant: https://hotelandrestaurantreviews.wordpress.com/2013/04/13/the-rowan-tree…ossan-scotland/It was a lovely lunch.

The Rowan Tree offers an excellent choice of food at very reasonable prices. My sister and brother-in-law joined my husband and me for Sunday Lunch. We had a choice of the Roast of Pork as well as the regular menu. Service was unobtrusive, the meal was freshly cooked and tasty and the coffee very smooth. I always enjoy a visit to The Rowan Tree Restaurant. This visit was no exception. 

So much kindness: it all seemed too much. I was amazed how even just going to lunch made me so bone achingly tired. Exhaustion makes me miserable, but the love of friends and family is wonderful.

Valerie Penny