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Finding Silver Linings: My Journey Through Cancer
- Rainbowkitchen
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
On the 10th of June, HVA, in collaboration with Macmillan, launched a project that is part of a wider national initiative to improve access and pathways between all the agencies and information available from services and groups in Hastings, and soon in Rother, for the prevention and support of cancer patients.
During the event, some of us were asked if we could share our stories of going through cancer.
I asked myself many questions, letting my mind wander. I reminded myself of my reflections over the years since my diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. How did we get where we are? What did change our lives so deeply? Were we given a chance to connect or reconnect with what we really were meant to do? Get in touch with what truly makes us happy? Preparing to speak on the day, I reflected on how I coped and made meaningful changes. I questioned who I was, what and who were important, and what I was doing. Going through cancer can be defining. If you know how to look, it comes with a silver lining, even if the cloud is as dark as can be.
Oddly, I felt lucky about it all, even though living through it brought immense grief.
The mere word 'cancer' makes us so much more aware of our mortality and finitude. It is scary and so emotionally charged too. I had to accept the fact that I was no longer the same. We all go through change; our bodies evolve and get older of course. The abruptness of the illness felt like a fall rather than a gentle ageing slope. However, strangely, this can become an asset. The accute awareness might be a blessing in disguise, as suddenly what surrounds us becomes almost more real.
Enhancing mindfulness, which makes the world around us, our loved ones, and our day-to-day life more precious. By prioritising intentionally, we take less for granted and may gain greater self-confidence.
My own way to cope was through good food, cooking and sharing and building strength. I used the help that I found with local support groups; charities and the wonderful people who run them but also in my own family, my partner, my friends and colleague’s circle.
I reflected on conversations I had with people I knew, who had been affected by cancer, either for themselves or loved ones. I also organised fundraisers, cooking, and baking workshops, and felt I wanted to bring something to the community. I was inspired to design my own well-being-through-food project and share with others the powerful experience of becoming reconnected, creative, and joyful in the kitchen.
I am very proud to be taking part in this project, and I am looking forward to seeing how and what will follow; for example, signposting the help available locally and support for people affected by cancer. Hopefully, I will continue to deliver more joyful, restorative, and confidence-building cooking sessions with patients and their loved ones.
It can sometimes start with a very small step—a single, simple conversation, or even a sentence. When we are open to listening, we can make tiny connections that have a significant impact on patients, their families, friends, and communities.
It is good to talk. And listen.
The actual little speech:
Article about the project in the Hastings Observer:
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