Almost 6 weeks since Treatment Finished

Dear All,

Please forgive me for not updating my blog for 5 weeks. I have no idea where the time has gone.

The good news is that my strength, energy and concentration levels, together with my ability to speak without dribbling like a madman and without pain are all steadily improving. My diet is still mostly liquid, however, with the ulcers in my mouth retreating like the glaciers, I am moving to less liquid fare e.g. tonight's shepherd's pie which Lucy has been slaving over a hot stove to cook (under my supervision of course which has been driving her crazy).

Daily walks with the mutt/wolf are giving me some exercise albeit limited. I am keen to move onto more productive exercise when energy levels allow - hopefully in the next few weeks. This should also enable me to put back on the weight I have lost as a result of the treatment - circa 8 Kgs. My weight has stabilised (this impressed the docs for some reason at my last visit) and is gradually improving which is not a mean feat via a liquid diet.

In respect to the medical stuff, my next trip to the docs on 12th October (monthly visits now) should show how the tumour on my tongue has responded to the chemo and radio treatment. They did say that two months affter treatment is still early and they may not be able to obtain a definitive view due to the the area being still inflamed. They are planning to do a scan after three months (mid November) which should then give a clear assessment of the state of my tongue. Prayers much appreciated and needed going forward. So a very interesting month and a half ahead.

On the home front, the school year is in full swing with the girls at various stages in their secondary education. Poppy is in her final year and in the process of applying to various Universities to study Chemistry. Ruby is doing her GCSE's and is applying to various schools to do sixth form. Ella is busy in year 8. Lucy is busy looking after me and the girla which I have to say is more than full time!

Subject to my health/energy levels etc. I am planning to return to work at some point in October. I am very fortunate that a lot of my work can be done via the internet which means being able to work from home. Work have been great and continue to be very supportive.

Due to the ulcers in my mouth recovering, I have been able to catch up with friends and have had some much appreciated visits. Anyone wanting to visit is more than welcome.

That brings things more or less up to date. I will endeavour to update the blog sooner next time.

Stephen