WHAT I'VE LEARNT FROM CANCER

On the 17th February my family received the news that Mum had another primary Cancer. We had been expecting something to arise around Christmas as something always does, but Christmas had passed and we thought we'd made it. I suppose we're in a better position than many due to this being the fifth time of hearing news like this however it was more serious than we first thought and this time it was terminal. I thought I would write this post for those of you who may be in a similar position for the first time and don't know what to expect or for others who may feel alone or confused. If I can help others in similar situations or those who want to learn more I will in any way possible.

1) It's okay to be scared

It's probably one of the scariest things you could ever experience but you can't let that stop you from carrying on. One of the best things I've ever heard my Dad say is 'Instead of dying, you've got to start living'. I now live by this and it really helps to make a positive out of every scenario.

2) The word Cancer doesn't always mean death

Take my mum for example, she's beat it 4 times! It's the luck of the draw. Doctors and Nurses work their hardest to ensure you'll get the best and most personalised treatment. I only learnt recently that chemo has a shelf life of only a couple of hours and each bag is individual to that person, made from blood tests the day before.

3) Every case is different

Every time someone is diagnosed whether it's the same diagnosis or not, it's different. The speed of its growth, side effects, treatment etc. There's no way one can compare to another so just because someone else lost their fight from the same diagnosis, doesn't mean another will.

4) You realise the real priorities in life

I've come to learn that people have very different priorities. I would like to be at every appointment but my parents priority is to make sure me and my sister go to school. But family must always come first and in some cases it takes something like this to realise that. When it all comes to it school isn't important, grades aren't important, nothing is. It's the people you love who are important. Don't take anything for granted.

5) Friends matter

Friends always matter but times like this they really do. I've seen how much support my mum has received and I really believe this helps her stay positive. Sometimes it's easier to talk to people that aren't in the family but just because they're not as forward doesn't mean they're any less of a friend. Some people aren't good when talking about emotions or they may not understand.

I hope this helps and if there are any questions comment them below or send an email to amyhall1998@hotmail.com


'Instead of dying, you've got to start living'.
Amy x

Tips for revising

Mocks are just around the corner so if you're in a panic like I have been, this should help

1) Make a revision timetable

You don't need to spend ages making one but put your lessons and frees on it as well as evenings and weekends. Plan revision around lessons, work, hobbies etc to make an achievable plan for each week or do one week at a time. If this doesn't work for you, you could write a list of things to do that week and work through them planning each day as you go along. 

2) Get pens and paper ready to start

I use flash cards but I know a lot of people make mind maps or type it up. All of my revision material is out ready to go so it's quick and easy to get going. If I can always see it I can't forget what has to be done. 

3) Don't buy loads of revision guides

I did for GCSE but haven't bought a single one for A Level. I personally think class notes are detailed and thorough enough but I like to write everything I can down. If you prefer to listen a revision guide may fill in gaps you can't remember. They don't hold all of the relevant info at A level so you'll have to research into somethings whereas for GCSE if you learnt the book you'd know everything that would be in the exam. 

4) Turn your phone off

Harder said than done but if you can't hear it going off you may not get distracted as much. I still get distracted by anything and everything but if I can prevent this as many ways as possible I will try. 

5) Listen to music

I find listening to music helps me concentrate for some subjects and not others. It's easier to listen to music when doing practical work but it's said that classical music really helps with revision. 

6) Take regular breaks

This can be to have a snack break or just a break in general but you have to stay disciplined if you want to get anything done. I'm definitely very hard on myself when it comes to having time off but you must do it to stay sane!

7) Eat healthily and drink lots of water

A healthy body means a healthy mind so the professionals say. I think it does have an impact on how alert and motivated you are and I try to keep to the same routine when revising so my body isn't hungry at inconvenient times.

Hope you've found this helpful in some way, if you have any other tips please let me know

Amy x