Having cancer means I often feel both okay and not okay all at the same time. It’s like the ebb and flow of the tides on the Thames estuary, pictured behind me, near to where I live. Each day the tide washes in and then it recedes again. This constant in and out, up and down - it's how life is right now. This is one of the biggest lessons I've had to learn since being diagnosed with prostate cancer: to get comfortable with that duality of emotions.
Hope is getting in the groove of life - finding joy and optimism in everyday moments such as savouring the first coffee of the day, noodling over ideas for my work and appreciating the sunlight on the estuary that I can see through my studio window.
Hearing from friends is always welcome. It doesn't have to be going for coffee. Any small word or thought will do. Even if you don't know what to say - just say you're thinking of them or ask how they are. It means the world.
I couldn’t be on this journey without my wife Zoë by my side. We are definitely stronger together. It means the world to know she is there for me.
Cancer turned my world upside down. I love walking on my local beach - it’s so grounding.