Almost...Drowning in Sicily!

Hey Guys

This is a true story written by a good friend of mine, about a very nearly fateful day whilst on holiday in Sicily, for both herself and her husband Lee (also a top lad and good friend) Michelle asked me a few days ago would it be ok for her to write a story and "Hijack my blog" as she put it. Of course, I said "Yes". 

Michelle went on to say " The blog I'm writing isn't about bikes or anything but I wanted to write, for my own therapy, and share an example of how humour can be found at some of the most testing times of our lives and the story will be about how I nearly drowned on a holiday to Sicily about 18 months ago".

Hi Glenn, I've finally finished this story and its below. X

I recently watched a video of two men doing the North Coast 500 in Scotland on bikes as well as some people driving around it. Both videos talked of the hairpin bends and it reminded me of a holiday in Sicily in 2018 and I had intended to write a bit of a blog about it for therapeutic reasons, but never got round to it. Well nearly 2 years later, I've just written in. Perhaps not recommended for those who have bad memories out at sea, but I hope gives a bit of insight and at least, to always listen to your instincts. 

Back in the Summer of 2018, we were fortunate to be given the opportunity to visit Sicily by a friend, Riccardo or Ricci as we've always referred to him. Ricci is very close to two of my nieces and nephew and knows my son too. He is so kind and easy to get along with and from a family get together the previous New Year's Day at our house, we got on talking about his home in Sicily and before we knew it, he had offered us free use of his family home if we fancied visiting Sicily. Wow-what a lovely offer, demonstrating just what kind of guy Ricci is and who, in their right mind, is going to turn that down! He was brought up in Sicily until a certain age then moved to the UK. However, the family home remained in Sicily where his whole family still use it as a base when visiting. So 6 months later we were at Manchester Airport, ready for the off. 

We were travelling to Catania Airport as Ricci's family home was located in a beautiful little village in the Siracusa area. Manchester airport was as expected, busy but wow what a shambles the security process was. There was no 'queue' of sorts and Mary, Lee and I got separated in the throng of people who were desperate to get through. We had the usual, remove coats, shoes, anything in pockets, liquids bag removed from case etc. During the scuffle and pandemonium, Mary, unbeknown to her at the time, had clothes and hair tongs removed from her suitcase. She seemed to take ages to get through but once at the other end we found each other and organised ourselves 'back to normal'. When we arrived in Sicily Mary realised a number of items missing from her case including clothes and hair tongs. I wonder what they do with all of those items not put back in travellers cases.

Lee

The approach to Catania Airport was stunning, as in the distance we saw Mount Etna and it was billowing smoke from its crater. The view was incredible. What an amazing start to our visit. Unboarded, through security and customs, picked up a hired car, all no problems. Fantastic. The drive from Catania to the village was lovely and we found the house very easily. The house is lovely and on 3 or 4 floors with a rooftop view that let you see for miles and miles. The village was called Canicattini Bagni and we observed a funeral procession on our first afternoon there. We were having a few drinks on the street outside the bar and every single person on that street stopped what they were doing, took off their hats and bowed their heads in respect. It was very moving and felt very traditional.

Mount Etna

The village itself contained a number of shops, a beautiful small park, church and amazing pubs and restaurants. We ate pizzas from a small local place called Charleston, on several occasions whilst there and they were the best best pizzas we had ever experienced anywhere. They alone, are worth a trip back.

Mmmmmmmm!

So for the first couple of days, we visited a beach, a local town, I recall was called Noto, with beautiful old architecture and we tried out some coffee houses with cakes. Everything was exquisite.
On, what I think it was the third day of our holiday, we decided to head out to the beach and relax. I did all of the driving to keep the insurance costs down, or at least that had been the plan before we left England. Lee and I work best when I drive and he map reads. That suits him well too as it means, he is generally the one who drinks (with his Mam), whilst I remain sober.

On this day, we used the satnav, as usual, to get us to a beach. I actually have no recollection which beach we went to, but what I do recall is the satnav taking us up a huge mountain pass, I mean really big. I am a very confident driver, but I admit I was very nervous as we started to ascend up a large range of mountains, with thin winding narrow roads. The condition of the roads was poor, with loose rocks in many places especially at the edges of both sides of the road. There were a lot of hairpin bends. Lee immediately likened the drive to a scene from The Italian Job and as I nervously crept around one hairpin bend after another on the edge of huge cliff edges, Lee played that song from the beginning of The Italian Job, having a bit laugh like he does. The weather was beautiful with a blue cloudless sky. The warmth of the sun beating through the car windows was comforting balanced with the air con and the music and views made for a beautifully memorable experience. It was only the knowledge that I held the responsibility for everyone's life by having full control of the car, that gave it a nerving element. We eventually got somewhere near the top, drove on flat but windy roads for a little while, before I saw the descent in front of us. Again my nerves kicked in as I started to slowly descend, foot on the brake the whole way down to control the speed of the car. It was terrifying. Some of the downhill ratio descents felt almost vertical and there were countless hairpin bends. As we reached the bottom I remember saying, with huge relief, that had to be the biggest traumatic experience of our holiday and at least it was over and done with and we would definitely go home a different way. Oh, how wrong I was. We later learned that there was indeed a very straight forward way back, missing out the mountains entirely and it was a shorter journey. 🙄

We arrived at the coastline in no time at all and followed it along heading North I assume, as the coast was on our right-hand side. At some point, we saw a sign for a beach. The parking was to the left of us and about a 5-minute walk away from the beach itself. It was quite busy with cars but we managed to get parked and we followed the signs down to the beach. 

When we got there, the view was simply gorgeous. Blue sky, white sand, waves in a beautiful sea. We scanned left and right deciding which way to head and find a nice area to set up and lie down. Lee, I knew would want to go right. This is because there were hardly any people to the right and the beach kind of stopped not too far away to the right, whereas to the left, we could see miles of white sandy coastline and very busy with families and couples and loads of lovely coloured umbrellas flapping in the wind. Lee always prefers the quieter areas, so we turned right. We found a space to sit, as far away from other people as possible but there really weren't many people in this area anyway. 

It must have been less than 10 minutes before Lee and I headed into the water. There were a lot of waves and we jumped in them and had fun. After not too long, I had a feeling that the waves were getting stronger. In hindsight, perhaps we were going further out without realising, but whatever instinct kicked in, it told me to get out of there pretty quick. I shouted at Lee, who was further out, that the waves felt too strong and we really should get out now. My memory isn't entirely full here, but I think I may have mentioned having heard of rip tides, and it not feeling right and will he come out., or perhaps that was a memory of a dream some time afterwards. I got out of the water and turned around to ensure he was making his way out too. I instinctively felt that he was, not fully struggling, but equally not finding it easy to make his way out. I waited and watched and a tang of concern overshadowed me as I could now see he was struggling. I shouted out 'You OK ?' but I soon realised he wasn't. I could see him battling against the waves and he got dragged out to the right-hand side where an outcrop of rocks was located, reaching out into the sea. I walked across the sand at the water's edge, following towards where he was being dragged. As he reached the rocks he grabbed onto them, but their formation was quite steep and vertical where he had been dragged to I knew he couldn't pull himself up and climb up the rocks. I shouted again was he, OK but I could see he wasn't. 

Instinct rather than preplanned careful consideration led me to get into the water thinking I can help him get out. For those that know Lee and myself, they'll be wondering what on earth was I thinking. I'm a very overweight, 51 (at that time) year old woman with not the best health record and not exactly fit. Lee, on the other hand, is 4 years younger than me and super fit. Despite this, I am (with a smirk on my face) still a better swimmer than him, not that Lee can't swim, he can, very competently. As a child, my brother and sister and myself were joined into a swimming club, Newburn swimming club at West Denton, where we learned to be very good strong swimmers, in every stroke including the physically challenging butterfly. We swam like fish and general swimming (not intense training) was completely effortless. I'm nowhere near that level now but swimming at that level brought great confidence in water and breathing and keeping afloat in a totally relaxed way even being able to lie on the (still) water not moving arms or legs and remain afloat very easily. Even now in my 50's, I can swim 200 lengths of a 20-metre pool with relative ease and not even run out of breath. This isn't because I'm super fit, its because I know my technique of swimming and breathing without using all of my energy and having a high level of feeling confident within the water. 

I entered the water until I could no longer feel the sea bed, moving towards him, as I lost my footing on the sea bed, I could feel the strength of waves was even more powerful than I had expected, so powerful that I found I had no strength to fight where the sea wanted to take me. It swept me to the same place as Lee. I was relieved to be close to him but knew we were in trouble and the look on his face re-affirmed that. I reached out and grabbed hold of the rocks and placed my feet on the rocks beneath the water. Lee shouted over towards the beach 'Help, Help' repeatedly. We could see Mary stood up on the beach watching us, but with the wind, I doubt she'd hear us. There really were not many others on the beach - we had certainly chosen the wrong spot. The few that were there, lay completely flat, sleeping in the glorious sun. I hadn't realised until this time just how dangerous those rocks were. Firstly, they were very very slippery, obvious in hindsight, but I hadn't thought of this until I was desperately trying to keep my hands and feet gripped onto them. Secondly, they were razor sharp. So whilst we used strength to keep gripped on, they cut our hands and feet every time we re-gripped. Finally, the other danger was the lashing waves ripping up against us and the rocks moving our bodies to and fro and side to side. It was hard work to stay put. The waves got stronger and I knew it was only a matter of time before I couldn't hold on any longer. I still don't know to this day, if the last wave pulled me off the rocks entirely, or if my energy just depleted so that I couldn't hold on, but either way, a wave smashed in and as the current pulled back with huge power, it took me with it. I recall me looking at Lee direct, as the wave pulled me backwards and him looking at me with all I can describe as absolute pure fear and terror. The wave was so powerful and strong that the speed and strength at which it pulled me back was staggering. Within seconds I was pulled way out to sea. I managed to keep facing forward, knowing I was facing the beach. I was pulled so far out and the waves were now too strong and high, that I couldn't actually see the beach any more. I couldn't see anyone. I tried to remain as calm as possible. Eventually, the waves seemed to pull me back to a point where I wasn't moving anywhere, or at least not the speed it had just taken me, but the water seemed to hold me in the position and I couldn't move out of it. I kept afloat and kept looking back watching for the next wave. The waves were so high, I couldn't swim over them or keep afloat, so I just braced myself, just before each wave hit and held my breath and went with the wave relaxing as much as possible, coming out on top of the water once the wave had passed. Whilst I did this, for what seemed like ages, I was very very aware my energy was draining. I never took in big mouthfuls of water (like the kind you do accidentally and it feels like water fills your lungs) but must have been taking in some water. I found I wasn't able to swim up and reach out of the water after each wave as easily or strongly as I had been doing so and I started to struggle to take in enough air before the next wave came. The waves were relentless. My arms started to feel weak. I kept this going for, well I don't know how long but it really did feel like ages. As each wave felt stronger and I struggled more, this is when panic set in and my strength deteriorated rapidly. 

It was some point, within a minute or so, after knowing my energy was draining rapidly that a wave came and I struggled to get my head up out of the water but I did, just, and I truly felt that the next wave and attempt to gasp air, may well be my last. I was still facing the beach direction, though I still couldn't see the beach. All I could see was water, all around me and nothing else. Even my eyes weakened at this point and just as I knew I couldn't keep fighting much more, I saw a person swimming towards me in the water out to my left-hand side. This absolutely and undoubtedly gave me a kick of inner strength to keep my head above water level and as I felt an overwhelming sense of connection with whoever this was, I saw to the right-hand side of me another person swimming out to me. I managed to stay afloat and each man grabbed an arm. They spoke to me but I can't recall anything they said. Whatever it was, I know I didn't answer. I had absolutely no strength whatsoever. 

They swam out to the right-hand side of where I had seemed to be stuck and after a short time then swam straight towards the beach. I didn't know why or even wonder why at that time. But I've read about riptides and I now understand that this is the way to get out of a riptide, to swim out of it at the side rather than directly in front of where it's moving. Had I have known this before that fateful day, I may have been able to swim ashore myself. 

They dragged me and swam and I recall that as they started to head towards the beach direction they asked me to kick my legs to help swim with them. I couldn't. I really couldn't. My body was drained of everything. 

As we got to the point where the seabed was within reach of our feet and they stood up they asked me to stand up to walk the remaining distance to the beach, but again I couldn't. There was no energy, absolutely none. I couldn't even talk. They had to drag me out of the sea (I'm not exactly of feather lightweight) and therefore not easy to simply lift up in their arms to gently place on the sand. I was dragged across the sand and I can't begin to say how grateful I was, for any which way they wanted to drag or handle me. 

Once on the beach, they put me in the recovery position. I didn't have the energy to open my eyes but I could hear Lee's voice. So yes, Lee had survived and somehow got back to the beach. I later learned that he had managed to keep hold of those rocks and slowly move his way towards the beach bit by bit until the rocks started to flatten in shape where he could actually climb onto them. Two men, from the beach, had gone out to help him. He shouted at them that his wife was out at sea, pointing in the direction that I had been taken, though none of them could see me. The men headed out to sea as Lee scrambled his way over the rocks and onto the beach. 

Back on the beach where I was now in the recovery position, I heard Lee's voice he kept repeating my name over and over telling me I'd be OK. They held me in the recovery position. Inside me, I could feel something big, something big wanting to come up, maybe vomit? water ?. I didn't know what it was but the feeling was overwhelming and very strong. It was painful. I knew I needed to be sat upright. I couldn't speak as I had no energy to even do that. All I could manage to say was 'Up', over and over again between trying to breathe. I could hear Lee tried telling the two men that I wanted to sit up, but they said I needed to remain in the recovery position. They were Italian, but one spoke good English. I repeated again 'Up, Up, Up'. Lee insisted that he needed to get me up. They eventually all helped me sit up, and I let out the biggest loudest burp you could imagine. They then slowly put me back into recovery and I remember feeling relieved that the big ache in my stomach had gone. As I had burped I managed to open my eyes slightly and saw Lee. He looked OK, I mean he was upright and talked and alert but he was covered in blood. 

I wasn't there for long at all before I was transported to a helicopter. I remember a lot of people being with me in the helicopter and that there was no room for Lee or Mary. The back of the helicopter was very small and compact. I think there were 3 or 4 people in there with me, but no room for anyone to move anywhere. I had a tube pushed down my throat into my stomach and something pumped into my stomach. I think they were trying to make me vomit or bring up water, and I didn't and I think they couldn't understand why. I do wonder if they thought I would have swallowed lots and lots of water, but I hadn't. Or perhaps I was wrong. I still don't know what that was. I can't remember landing or going into the hospital. I now know I was taken to Catania Hospital.

The Helicopter that I was transported in

My next memory is being in an area of the hospital with lots of people coming and going. I remember having a very strong overpowering feeling of needing to contact Lee. I was sat in a hospital with bloods being taken, I think I still had a tube in my nose. What I remember vividly is having very shallow breathing, short breaths. I couldn't breathe in deeply and slowly no matter how much I tried. I remember lying on a hospital trolley bed with nothing more than my bather on me and my wedding ring. Nothing else at all. Absolutely nothing. Nothing to identify who I was even. No shoes or slippers if I needed to get up for the toilet. Just nothing. People's English wasn't great. Now don't misunderstand me. I'm not the kind of person who 'expects' everyone living outside of the UK to speak English. I don't. I really don't. However, many people do and I was just a little surprised that nobody did. More to the point perhaps is that I knew no Italian whatsoever - other than Ciao!

It felt like ages that I lay in that bed, more bloods taken, blood pressure checked constantly and being moved from one area to another area. I was desperate to contact someone. I managed to communicate with one nurse who understood, and she asked for a number she could ring. I didn't know Lee's number and the only number I could remember was my own. I gave her that number assuming that Lee or Mary will have picked up my bag from the beach. She rang, no answer. She rang again no answer. I realised I think I had left my phone switched off. Grrrrrrr. 

I was then moved to a bigger open ward and placed in a cubicle with the curtains left open. My desperation to make contact with someone was growing stronger and stronger. I felt so alone. I hadn't cried at all, but I needed to speak to someone. It must have been visiting time in the ward as people, probably relatives, were entering and visiting people in the ward. As people passed I shouted out to them 'Excuse me, can you help'. Every one of them looked at me like I was nuts. After all, there I was with nothing but a bather on, talking in a foreign language holding my hand out to people. 

I needed a better plan. In the middle of the ward was a big circular desk rather than a reception area with staff inside the circular area. Nurses and doctors came and went checking records and asking staff to check computers. I called out to a nurse who came to my bedside. I somehow communicated that I needed a phone. Bingo she understood and brought her phone over. As I couldn't remember anyone's phone number, I needed another way to contact, and I thought of Facebook. I now needed to explain that I needed the Facebook app. I took the phone from her and saw the Facebook app - Thank God. I pointed to it saying I needed to use that. Again she understood, Hallelujah. She opened it up and passed the phone to me. She left me with the phone as she went back to her business. Thank God, as it was going to take me some time to try and make contact. 

My knowledge of the specific intricacies of Facebook was not, and still is not, great. Next hurdle, the whole thing is in Italian. FFS ! OK, think this through bit by bit. So I believed that I couldn't send anyone a message unless you were 'friends' with them. So I managed to find, eventually (even that took time) a number of my family members and sent a friend request. I was still logged into the Nurses account. I had considered logging out and relogging in as myself but I knew I couldn't remember my password and the whole app was in Italian, so I didn't even know what the buttons meant! I knew that somewhere in the phone I could change the settings to the English Language from Italian but needed to understand the buttons before I could do that! So I thought the next best option was to friend request my family members on her account. I had hoped they might make the connection with an Italian name, and me being in Italy and may press accept simply to clarify who it was and then I could connect with them. 

None of them responded. I later found out that most, like my sister, told me, saw this friend request from a foreign person, assumed it was a nutter and pressed the 'Delete' button. At the time I could have cried, but in hindsight, I now find this hilarious and still have a good laugh at that whole scenario. I am in a desperate situation and very much traumatised. Despite this, I'm looking for ways to connect with family and come up with solutions only to have them dashed by them pressing 'Delete' I have laughed so many times over the past 2 years about this. 

I'm usually a fighter and I don't give up. I have a strong life mantra, and that is 'There's always a solution' to achieve what you need and want.' and I wasn't about to give up. As I sat pondering my next move and my breathing had started to improve slightly, I thought of landline numbers. Which ones did I know? Just mine and Mary's. Mary was here in Sicily !!! I didn't even know my Mam's landline number, I'm sure it had recently changed too. Everyone else I contacted by mobile and didn't know their numbers from the top of my head. Grrrrr 

As I started to feel disheartened, I heard a familiar voice. 'I'm looking for Michelle Sheridan' and I immediately looked up and saw Lee and Mary. I shouted over to them at the reception area and they turned and came straight to the bed. From nowhere came floods of tears. I couldn't believe it. It just felt like a weight lifted. I then learned how Lee and Mary had spent the last hour in the hospital trying to find me, being passed from one place to another. Lee told me how my arm and lips were blue when I was dragged out of the water. Although he had been covered in blood from cuts all over his hand's arms, legs and feet, nobody had taken any notice of him. 

I don't actually have much memory after that at all. What I did later learn was that as I had left in the helicopter, Lee and Mary headed straight back to the car. Lee needed to contact the Insurance Company to get himself put on the insurance. He needed his driving licence number. He didn't have his licence on him. He managed to ring a colleague at work who was able to retrieve his licence from his locker and send him a pic of it. Great. The insurance company did not make things easy from what I understand and in the end, Lee lost his temper with them. Before he could get put on the insurance, he drove without insurance. Eventually, the insurance was sorted. He said that the drive to and from the hospital each day after that was a challenge. It was the driving in Catania City Centre that was a nightmare. 

What I do remember is then being settled into a room with two other ladies. It was a much smaller ward than before. 

During the course of the next 4 days, I was constantly monitored, my breathing improved to normal. Discussion took place with Doctors who visited me at my bedside. Lee had been in touch with Ricci who spoke to Doctors and acted as an interpreter for us especially concerning medical matters. Ricci was annoyed that no lifeguards had been on the beach or that there had been no warning flags out. Ricci assured us that this was quite unusual in his own experience. On other occasions, we used our phones with Google translate to communicate lots of information to and from Doctors. It was actually very effective. 

On the first night, I was in hospital Lee and Mary decided to stay in a local hotel. It would mean they didn't have a long way to go back home and they could go out for a meal and drink to try and chill out. However, they weren't allowed to book into any hotel without their passports, and they didn't have them with them. So they went back home, but I understood they both had more than a skinful of drink on that night when they got home. 

A female priest visited our room twice when I was there to give communion to the two ladies I shared the room with. She seemed very pleased to hear I was Roman Catholic and whilst I do not practice, I decided to take Communion anyway. I said the prayers in English whilst they said them in Italian. I think they were all strangely impressed, their nodding smiles of approval were obvious. 

Then day 4 (or maybe 5) I was discharged. Ricci, I am sure had been concerned that our holiday had been ruined by this but actually it hadn't. Certainly, it had been traumatic and Lee, still to this day, has flashbacks. Sometimes I can feel a sudden panic if watching rough sea scenes in films etc but on the whole, I'm fine. In fact, when I started to read this out to Lee for his thoughts, he had to stop me at the point when we had been on the rocks. He couldn't listen any more. He has real traumatic memories of it all. The rest of the holiday went really well and I was determined to go back into the sea which I did on a day when the sea was very calm. In fact, I think I recall it was Father's Dad. We both went in but didn't go deeper than our waist but went in fully including heads under. I wanted to be sure I had no fear of the sea, as I love being in the water and I was fine. 

Sicily is a beautiful country in every way. I would definitely go back and hope one day I will. For anyone who has read this far, then take from it what you wish but know that heroes come in many shapes and forms and sometimes from nowhere when you most need them. Rarely do they get the thanks and recognition they deserve. When you think the worst is over, sometimes it isn't. One thing that helps us through is people who choose to support and help, sometimes in obvious ways and sometimes in not so obvious ways. 

Know that the power of the sea is immense and unpredictable. Sit beside large crowds of people on beaches not in isolation away from the crowds. Note if there are lifeguards and look out for warning flags. Follow your instinct and remember the funny times. I'll never forget how my family clicked on Delete without a second thought when I needed them so badly. LOL

Written by Michelle Sheridan, one of the kindest, strongest and most thoughtful ladies I have the pleasure of knowing.

Chemotherapy Treatment Round One...Ding Ding!

 Ooh a couple of days off work, for many of us this is a real treat, for me though I'd much rather be at work and just lead an ordinary hum drum sort of day. I'm never more happy than when I'm the one trying to help other people get better,recover or just try to make their day more bearable. Being a patient sucks and I have had my fair share on the side of the curtain.

When it's my turn to be a patient and I'm not feeling so good I always try to make sure I put the correct head on in the morning and be as friendly, positive and helpful as a patient can be towards the clinical staff and other patients as from personal experience it really does help things go along a lot smoother and more efficiently, hence getting you out that little bit quicker, well hopefully.

That wasn't the case today, No not because I was being stubborn or rude or had indeed incorrectly chosen my grumpy head, yes it does exist, it's way back in the darkest recesses of my wardrobe gathering dust. I don't like that head. Today was long because of the type of drug treatment I was going to be going through.

I arrived at the University Hospital of North Durham (UHND) just before my appointed time of 9:00am and was immediately introduced to the nursing staff and directed to a seat. One of the nurses  came over and checked all my details and got straight on preparing all the required gear to get me up and running. A needle was placed in the back of my left hand. Now I have had many needles popped in over the years, however the experience never gets any easier for me. I still always feel nervous,clammy and queasy. The nurse was very attentive and caring frequently asking "are you ok". I'd like to say maybe I'm really scared of needles because of a few incidents where I can recall things didn't go well. Over the years there have been a few dodgy incidents one being when I visited the old South Moor community hospital which is now no more. Having being demolished and the ground left unattended for a good few number of years. I hear more new houses will be built on the sight. This to me is a real shame as in my opinion a modern community hospital or a similar rest-bite and or hospice should have replaced the old hospital which had a really good reputation and stunning grounds. Instead no doubt there will be town houses built in a deprived area where people struggle to find work. Anyhoo getting back to the needle incident a nurse at the old South Moor Hospital I think completely missed my vein or went through it. I got like a dead arm and I'm sure she drained more than the required alotted amount, the pain was horrendous. A few days later my whole arm was tingly and went black and blue.

My next bad experience was when I was in theatre awaiting the anaesthetist. You can kind of tell things aren't going to go well when the anaesthetist enters the room, glasses on and all chirpy, introduces himself then proceeds to walk into the over head projector surgery light with a reverberating "Doinggg!" after hitting his head. I really did panic when he then went to put the needle in my hand and I heard those not so encouraging words of "Oops". The words "Oops" and clinical staff never go well together, especially when sharp instruments are involved.
Really it's just a case I'm a natural born pussy and have always been fearful. From an early age if I knew there was some sort of vaccination going on at school I would think of a way of getting the day off.

Now my technique for needle fear is look away and think of something like a shopping list, obviously not a boring food shopping list, no a bike porn shopping list. See it worked "sharp scratch" the nurse says and it's in and taped down. A quick flush with some saline and then the nurse is on taking my blood pressure.

The antibody drug Ritixumab is then placed upon my drip stand,attached and fed in ever so slowly. This drug can cause an allergic reaction and lower a patients blood pressure so has to be infused very slowly. The bendamustine which is the chemo drug can go through a lot quicker.

As I sat in the recliner chair the chemo department started to fill up. And after a while I struck up a conversation with a very nice gentleman and shortly after a lovely couple. We discussed a wide variety of topics which as you can imagine included what types of cancer we had all presented with. I have to say I was amazed at how up beat and open everyone was. The young lady of the couple asked some very interesting questions as I did of her. I like people who are like this, they quite often say "I hope you don't think I'm being rude". I don't think it's being rude to take an interest in someone it's just being inquisitive and this is how we learn and grow. I discovered the young couple just live up the road from me in my good friends Lee and Michelle's estate so I fully intend to take them up on their offer and call in and see them at some point. I would love to introduce them to Lee and Michelle as they are genuine friendly salt of the earth people and what with Michelle kicking cancer's ass in her brave fight last year well it gives us all common ground. People don't realise that cancer doesn't just effect the person who has it, it effects whole families and close friends too. For me speaking as someone caring for my mam when she had terminal pancreatic cancer I can't describe the emotional roller coaster and the feelings of guilt and anger I went through. Of course I was also very proud when I heard my dad tell people of how  proud he was of how I cared for my mam in her final weeks. When we lost my mam it was a huge devastaing loss, however I took something positive from her passing and I use it almost everyday in my current job. Compassion and care and looking at how I can do the best for people. I know my mam would approve of this and be so very proud to see that although I was never going to be a high flyer I am happy in what I do and how I try to make a difference.

Today was one long session, 7 hours sat in a reclined chair does your back no good at all. As I'm sat here typing this up I can honestly say that the worst thing about today is my back, it's aching like hell tonight. So No not the sickness so far it's early days but I have none. Yes I'm tired, but hey that may be that I have been feeling tired for months now anyhoo. I did have a bit of a headache when I left the treatment and also felt a tad light headed, a good long doze cured that when I got in after having something to eat.

I now have lots of other meds to take at home. Steroids, ant- sickness meds and more anti-sickness meds in case the first ones don't work. Oh and the ones I'm going to hate taking which are anti-biotics. I will be on these the length of my treatment 6 months, then have to take a further 6 month course.

Tomorrow is round 2 at 11am, it shouldn't take as long as it's just the chemo treatment. Then I'm off for a month before round 3 and 4 start.

I have been given advice on do's and don'ts. Things like not mixing with people with infections and being more careful should I go out mountain biking. I have a habit of getting scrapes and scratches so ill have to be aware of these and try and watch what I'm doing. I caught my leg on a wire fence pole when out with John last week and got a big scrape. Any other time it would be considered innocuous, I will now have to think just that little bit more and take a tad more care.

I will write more for hose of you who are interested, trying to keep it light, but real.

I will end with my  Virgin Just Giving Page. I'm not asking for donations for myself but my chosen charity Arctic ONE who have been of immense support to me. Arctic ONE helped fund raise to get me a running prosthesis and obviously I'm gutted I can't take part in this years Arctic ONE Tri- festival at Dorney Lake. I know this has been out of my control, never the less I still feel a sense of failure and guilt at letting everyone down. That includes my friend Brian Bartlett who always writes such inspiring mails to me. Pace Rehab for their tireless  work, Bike Swanky who sponsor me on my PYGA and of course Arctic ONE. I have had great words of encouragement from all these people and I guess that support epitomises what these people represent. Of course what they get from me is they know I will never quit and I write a lot...I mean a lot. It only takes one person to say something that then sparks an interest in someone else and before you know it people are sharing info and ideas and looking at positive ways to help support or change things for the better. Well that's what I hope happens when I write, you guys are the judge of that.

A huge thank you to everyone you, help to make me who I am and life's battles appear easy with friends at your side.

Thanks Michelle for treating us to a fantastic Bush crafting experience.

Quite sometime ago my friend Michelle bought Lee (Michelle's husband), our friend John and I a lovely surprise gift. It was a days taster course on Bushcrafting. This is where you learn to use skills in order to set up a camp. Things like making, constructing and putting up shelters, how to light and make a fire and one of the most important things how to obtain safe drinking water from different sources.

Well yesterday was the pre-arranged day for our Bushcrafting adventure. John had decided he didn't fancy going, which was a shame as we had a fantastic day and learnt lots, even though we only had a short period of time with the instructors. So rather than just waste the place our friend Al jumped at the opportunity to come along and expand his knowledge of playing in the great outdoors.

Al and Lee at Kirkley Hall

Lee called for me around 8:30AM and we had a lovely leisurely drive up to Kirkley Hall, which is in Ponteland. There we met Al and had a few moments to have a chat and also meet some other adventurers as we waited. After a little time had passed we figured we must be in the wrong area as time was getting on and we hadn't really seen anyone else. So we asked this very friendly lady just where abouts the Bush-craft course people may be.The lady directed us down through the car park and towards the woods and there we found a larger group of people and some of the instructors, Ron and Margaret.

Ron and Margaret gathered a few details from all of the group and explained a little about how the course would be ran and then we were off walking down an incline and some steps and into the woods, all very scenic.

Once in the woods there were cups of tea and coffee available and we where introduced to a few more instructors who were going to be helping with the Bushcrafting activities. There was Steve and Ron's son Alex.  The group of people attending the day was quite large so we were split into 3 groups of 7. This was great as it gave us all a chance to meet new people and really enjoy our successes and of course all have a laugh at our failings, of which I have to say there were few. Ron decided we should give our individual groups, names based on Indian themes. This is because he particularly likes the history of the Native American Indians, their use of the land and the tools and weapons they chose to use all those years ago. Ron is very much into archery, knife throwing and the use of a tomahawk and he has passed this passion down to his son Alex. The names of the tribes each group came up with were The Mow-hawks, The big Wood Tribe and the tribe I was in was called the Running Stream.

Each tribe then set off with an instructor to learn about different aspects of Bush-crafting. Our Tribe Running Stream, got Steve firstly as our instructor. We were to learn about shelters. Steve did an excellent job of testing our knowledge and then going on to explain how and why each shelter was made in a different way. Steve showed us an array of different knots, taking time to go over each one and if anyone got stuck helping out and offering top tips. It was a really good exercise in both team building and gaining valuable knowledge of how to construct a basic shelter within minutes. Top marks to Steve he was awesome, and like all the instructors on the day very likeable and easy to get along with.

We all thanked Steve and then broke for lunch. I decided to opt for a nice cup of coffee to go with my pre-prepared Nutella and carved chicken baby bread, fruit loaf sandwiches. It was great just sitting around the camp fire sharing stories and experiences with everyone. Me well I seem to talk more than most, in fact it's something I'm becoming increasingly aware of and at times I feel I should reign myself in. I don't know if it's because I'm getting overly confident these days or the opposite I'm quite afraid so I just waffle on about anything or nothing in particular. For those who know me I can't win as if I'm quiet I'm in a huff or sulking and when I'm chatting all the time I must be annoying. It's weird what you think of when your just typing away lol.

Lee checking for a saggy bottom

Lee chuffed his bottom isn't sagging

  After lunch we set off with Alex,who was going to teach us all about fires,. The best materials and tools to use to create a fire. Firstly Alex showed us what small kindling we would need to collect in order to get our fire going. We were asked to head off into the woods and collect 2 bundles of kindling each. Fine pine tree branches work best as they ignite well and the sap within the branches helps the fire burn. On our return Alex asked us all to take a seat and he meticulously went through various tinder's, how to make or prepare them and different methods of igniting a fire. We got to practice with fire steels as well as a metal striker and traditional flint. Then there was the old fashioned playground method of igniting a piece of Charred cotton, using a magnifying glass and the rays of the sun, Alex even used an old 9 volt battery and some wire wool in his demonstration. After Alex's demonstration we all got the opportunity to practice making our own fire, using a firesteel and a small amount of cotton wool which we rubbed Vaseline into. This makes for a great method of starting a fire and is very easy. Before long we all had fires of varying size and were all pretty proud of ourselves. Alex did a great job of teaching us all, he took time to answer our questions all the while making the exercise fun, informative and safe. Again top marks.

 

Ho Ho I have created Fire!

Al got well into it so

Blow Al Blow

Lee and Alex

Having a chat around the camp fires

Our next exercise was in water filtration and this was led by Ron.  As many of you will know water is very heavy when your attempting to carry it. I know a great deal of my overall back pack or Bike Bag Dude Frame bag weight is in carrying 3 litres of water, so being able to source water if or when you are on a long trip is a valuable piece of knowledge. I found this part of the course very interesting indeed. Ron went through lots of different ways in which we could source water and then the dangers of drinking from certain places, how we could utilise both natural and man made items such as reeds, socks, denim jeans,bottles, polythene bags, charcoal, sand and the list goes on, all to help make filtration devices to make the water safe for drinking or in order to collect safe drinking water.. More very useful information and definitely something I think we can and will put into practice as we plan for our adventure next year. 

Finally we joined up with Margaret who had a real treat in store for us. We were going to make Bannock Bread. Margaret handed us the ingredients and the small mixing bowls. It was my job to mix up the stuff for Lee Al and myself. I commented that the bread would be nice with raisins and Margaret just happened to have some, as well as some cinnamon, so I popped these in. Once mixed I attached the dough to a stick and spread it out evenly and Lee baked the bread over the open fire. it only took around 10 to 15 minutes and when done the bread tasted amazing.

Making Bannock Bread Mmmmmm!

"What are you boys doing!"

Lee giving the sign of his approval

 Wow the day had gone so quick and we had all thoroughly enjoyed it. This was just what they call a taster session, obviously you couldn't learn everything in one day. I have to say though I learnt so much in that short space of time and the guys over at Taught in the Woods  were all simply fantastic, so a huge thank you to Ron,Alex, Margaret and Steve. If your into the great outdoors I can't recommend doing something like this enough.

In ending a Huge thank you to Michelle for arranging the day out, we all had an awesome day. I will be giving you a huge hug and a few kisses when I see you next xXx

Ooooh a Charity gig, featuring The Panic Report a North Eastern Band at the Schooner. I'll be there!

Guest Blog by Michelle Sheridan


The Panic Report are a local band from the North East.  One of the band - Lee Stephenson spent most of his childhood growing up with my husband - Lee Sheridan.  So when Lee Stephenson heard about my cancer diagnosis and our intention to try and support Glenn Johnstone and Arctic ONE, he said if there was anything he could do to help we just had to let him know and that he'd have a think about what he could do to help.

So one evening, whilst thinking about fund raising ideas, it just seemed so obvious that the one thing Lee could do was to put on a Charity Gig in aid of Arctic 1 and Glenn.  So no sooner had it been suggested that Lee agreed to it.

Fantastic but now we had to try and decide on a venue - and a cheap or free one at that.  Julie Tekin is a great friend and colleague and has given me so much direct support since my diagnoses that I have pretty much kept her up to date with everything.  As it happens, Julie used to be a MacMillan Nurse, so has years and years of experience in supporting those affected by cancer.

Julie has a great friend called Lynne, whose brother, just so happens to own a pub in Gateshead, and a pub that just so happens to supports live bands.  Well need I say anything more ...... yet more support results in us getting a free venue for the Charity Gig .....so a huge huge thanks has to go to The Schooner Pub on South Shore Road, Gateshead for offering us their pub, free of charge.

Well every thing's now pretty much set up.  Julie and I have organised some raffle prizes for the evening with all proceeds going to Arctic ONE.  Al Roberts, a new friend of Glenn's and someone who you can read all about in Glenn's latest blogs, is also seeing if he can arrange some raffle prizes.  Great stuff and fantastic support from people in all corners.

Well that's about it - the event will start at 7pm(ish) at The Schooner on Friday 29th August 2014.  Its been advertised on Facebook and I have no idea how many people may turn up - but any amount is better than none !

xxxx

Checkout the Schooner's Facebook page and add a like

Glenn "Thanks to everyone for all your support I really do appreciate it and I know the guys over at Arctic ONE are simply blown away by how much support I have received over the last few months. I've made so many new and dear friends in fact I often wonder what the hell I must have been doing before you all came along. My life is enriched so much more now that I have you all in my life".

Most Enjoyable Weekend

Isn't it lovely when you get a spot of nice weather, have no real plans and can just relax and do nothing in particular?

This weekend I kind of had plans to go biving with Lee, unfortunately after getting all my gear ready and just about preparing to set off to call on Lee he showed up at ours to inform me that his wife Michelle wasn't feeling to well and he wouldn't be able to go. Lee kept apologising saying "I feel really guilty" and asking was I ok about him having to change plans. "Hey don't worry" I said there will always be other adventures, at the end of the day Michelle is far more important than some over nighter sleeping in a plastic sack.  This treatment Michelle is undergoing is really taking it out of her, the sooner it's over the better.

I had spoken to my other friend Carl during the week and he was all up for a ride out on Friday afternoon, so that's what we did. Having a steady away up towards Consett and Waskerley Way, before turning around and coming back, popping into KFC to grab some sustenance in the shape of a Flaming wrap,popcorn chicken and some fries, oh and of course a Skittles Krushem milkshake. It was smashing seeing Carl, as it's been sometime and having a nice ride out with him. We covered just over 23 miles me, riding my NS Soda Air and Carl taking his Yeti ARC for a spin.

    

Me and Carl up towards Waskerley Way

Weapon of choice for today

A quick break before heading to KFC

Looking back the way we came

A random gate I just liked the sunshine

At the moment I'm pretty happy with the way my fitness is going, the  and local trails I'm riding not proving overly difficult and as I'm riding locally it allows meto get an idea of where I previously would struggle. Inthe past and I'm not making excuses for my fitness, however I have struggled to maintain some semblance of a routine. I have found something has always happened so my riding and general fitness has always been stop,start, stop,start. It actually gets depressing when you reach a certain level, have to stop for one reason or another then start right back where you originally were unfit and with no endurance or stamina. In the past I have suffered illness,broken bikes,ill fitting limbs,soreness,depression,laziness and a whole multitude of other sins and problems that have stopped me just getting out there and enjoying my riding. I'm still having a few probs at the minute socket wise, however feel this is one

of the most enjoyable periods I have had upon my various bikes.

On Saturday my friend Ade came down for both my son Kyle and me and we had a canny walk out. Firstly having a look down at the marina under Scotswood Bridge and then driving over to Swallwell visitor Centre, parking there and walking up the Derwent Walk. The Derwent walk was quite busy, various young couples,some with children in buggies other's taking their pooches for walks. There were cyclists and runners and all manner of people enjoying the beautiful weather. About roughly 2 miles into our walk we looked back as we heard the sound of a motorbike. "Weird" I thought where can that be coming from, as No motorcycles are allowed on the Walk, it's pedestrains,cyclists and horses only. But no approaching us and not slowing down for anyone is 3 scumbags all riding on the same clapped out motorbike. They are flying up the Walk with total disregard for anyone, whether that be adults their children or any dogs they have for a walk. I just stood in the middle of the path I wasn't going to shift for these cocks. As soon as they got past I asked Ade if he knew the non emergency number for the Police and after he did a quick Google search he told me it was 101. I discovered it wasn't 111 after I rang the NHS Oops. I reported what I had witnessed and the very polite operator asked would I like to be kept in the loop if anything came of the incident "Yes" I replied. Anyhoo I have had 2 courtesy calls so far from Northumbria Police and although they haven't caught these scumbags I am happy with the Police's response and how they have gone on to say they will monitor the area. It's absolutely ridiculous riding a motorcycle down that path as someone could get seriously injured or even killed.

And so today after not getting to bed until after 4:35am this morning, couldn't sleep so looking at bike porn. I'm in the market for a road bike just can't decide which one. I got up at around 10'ish. Lee had messaged me asking if I was up for an outing. I then got in touch with Carl and he was up for a look out so he came over for me and then I took him over to Lee's to introduce the two of them.


Once Carl and Lee had made each other's acquaintance we headed off, yep the old favourite route and up the farmers trail. We kind of just made the route up as we rode and found ourselves on the Tanfield Railway path and from there headed to Sunnyside. It was quite funny watching Carl clamber over a gate enroute. Lee and I looked on curiously "Errr why did  you climb over the gate Carl ?" Obviously Carl hadn't noticed the piece of rope keeping the gate shut lol.

Rather technical way of keeping the gate shut, Carl decided to climb over said gate

     After the gate was a big puddle wow you should have seen all the midges, they are right nasty little buggers and need to be avoided at all cost.

Midges were all over near this puddle

Look at all the vicious little buggers I hate scumbag midges

 This is where Lee showed me a completely different route and we ended up almost at the entry for the Clockburn Lonnen. As I caught up to both Lee and Carl, Lee informed me Michelle had been on the phone and that she wasn't feeling well. So unfortunately he had to head back home. Carl and I decided to crack on and went down the Clockburn Lonnen which was a real thrill as the bank is very steep. Once at the bottom we were on to the Derwent Walk and set a canny pace up the track. There was a young couple on bikes in front of us and we used them to set a pace. at one point they tried to lose us, however they ran out of steam and the 2 old farts passed them, no stamina these young'un's lol. After a few miles a quick pit stop for a banana and a couple of cereal bars and of course a bit chat, then we were off again all the way up to Consett and well may as well pop into KFC as we are passing, Carl treating us to a Zinger Burger each and a couple of shakes. The ride home was fun and I mentioned to Carl "you know what I think I could do that full loop again I feel good".

I've lost a good bit weight. On trying out my check socket

Carl sporting his beard

You can tell Carl hasn't been out for a bit as he was complaining of a sore butt

Admiring the view

  So overall this weekend has been very enjoyable. I only got nettled once and it's burning like a bugger at the moment. I got to spend some quality time with my friends, reported some scumbags so did my  whole looking after the enviroment and protecting our local area...expecting my good citizen award soon and maybe the keys to the city. Oh and the weather has been beautiful.

In ending although I have had a good time I would like to spare a thought for Michelle and Lee. So many people get wrapped up in their own little worlds that they forget about what other people are going through or facing. Here's wishing you a speedy recovery Michelle xXx

Ooh what a lovely surprise from my friend Bex

A week to the day ago I was down in Buckinghamshire taking part in the Arctic One's duathlon. I had a fantastic time and met some proper friendly people and received loads of support and well wishes, oh and a few slightly bemused looks as people checked out my ride. Yeah obviously they hadn't got the memo everyone was supposed to turn up on Fat Bikes...Or was that just me. I suppose I must have looked like the guy who turns up to a party all dressed in a fancy dress costume only to find out "Errr actually it's not a fancy dress". Never mind for me and the guys at Arctic One it was all about the taking part, not so much how fast I could get around the course.

What a lovely surprise thanks Bex xXx

 

Mixed feelings about biving and riding so far in 2 days.

 This is long. I've tried to write it as short as possible, however it's hard trying to condense 2 days worth of stuff into a few paragraphs and hey I had nothing better to do with my Sunday apart from look after my sore ass, have the occasional coffee and just relax.

So as I've said it's Sunday morning as I write about my adventures which took place on Friday and Saturday. I've awoke to a very stiff left leg (the one I call my good leg) although at the moment it doesn't feel all that good. Not only is it stiff, but I also have that darn niggling pain back in my ACL (cruciate ligament). I put it down to my shoes and the cleat position as it happened last time I wore these ones on a long ride. I've tried adjusting them several times, however no joy. Funnily enough I also have a pretty stiff stump too. I guess that shows the extent of the workout I gave the poor little fellow. Add this to saddle and socket sores and a blend of phantom pain and your probably wondering "errr why do you bother when it causes all this pain and discomfort". Well there's an easy answer it's because I love being out with my friends, riding my bike, seeing new places and faces and making memories. In the past I have had way too much sit in the house, thinking "well this is it for me", so now I have the ability to do things I like to grab every opportunity I can.

So lets move on to the tale of our micro-adventure. 

A not so short ride to Finchale priory

Bikes,cycling,pedalling,more bikes and what I do when I go out and who with on my bike...Ah well here's more.

The night before this latest adventure I went to bed with an idea of just how I was going to shoot this little movie of this pretty steep hill I had found. A few days previous I had been out with John and quite by chance we came upon this hill, that at the time didn't look all that steep, however it proved to be quite difficult to get up. Part of the reason for me was being on my NS Soda at the time which is only equipped with a 10 speed gear set-up, so no granny to drop to, to help me up.

Anyhoo when I got in from work on Wednesday John had been on the phone saying he fancied a ride to Finchale Priory. I told him about my plans for heading out and capturing some footage and he agreed we could put Finchale off to another day.

Finchale priory

I haven't cut anything as it's a great blog,by Michelle Sheridan

Hi Glenn, here's my attempt at writing something for your Blog.  I think its too long but feel free to cut from it.  Wow I've just read it - and its an epic !!!  Let me know what you think. 

xxxx
My name's Michelle and the below is a snapshot of my life since 23rd March 2014 (the date that I refer to as the 'Fate Date') to today (10 May 2014). 

Going back (briefly to set the scene) to about last Spring or Summer Lee (my husband) and I were in Stanley Front Street when Lee ushered to me to check out this bike heading our way.  Lee is a keen cyclist and always commenting on bikes and their components.  I could see the bike had really big tyres and my thoughts were 'yeah its a bike with unusally big tyres'.  As it neared us Lee remarked that it was a 'Sandman - a Fat Bike' and the tone of his voice and look on is face assured me without any doubt that what we were looking at was something special.  As it drew closer we were both staring, then as the bike and rider flew passed we noticed that the rider had an artificial leg.  Simultaneously we turned to look at each other and in silence we knew exactly what each other was thinking.  I could read Lee's mind as he thought 'That's one hell of an amazing bike' whilst at the same time we both thought 'Bloody hell that bloke's got a false leg and yet he's riding that bike like a pro !'.  We both then exchanged words to the effect of 'I hope he didn't think we were staring at his leg'.

Anyway Lee talked about this bloke on his bike all the way home, all afternoon and all night.  Lee reckoned that such a bloke riding such an amazing bike couldn't possibly be from Stanley but he pondered why this bloke was riding through Stanley Front Street.  Lee was convinced he must have been lost !

Anyway months passed and Lee saw this bloke a couple of times whilst out riding, but had never been close enough to stop and have a word.  Then one day, googling and youtub'ing Bike things, Lee came across a video of Glenn Johnstone and Lee recognised him and the bike.  He was amazed especially when he saw that Glenn had posted loads of videos.  When Lee started watching them he started to recognise loads of local areas.  We then found Glenn's blog and was amazed to see that Glenn actually lived in Stanley.

All of this resurrected Lee's fascination with Glenn.  His videos were really great quality and superbly edited.  Lee produces some of his own home videos, is a total perfectionist and the two clearly shared more than just one passion now - bikes and producing great home videos ! 

(In the style of Glenn .... this is going on longer than I had anticipated - so stick the kettle on !):

OK, cup in hand ?  Good ... I'll continue .....

Lee had always hoped that there would be someone local to him that he could go on bike rides with.  I have a bike and like the occasional ride out, but Lee and I are at opposite ends of the scale when it comes to cycling, stamina, endurance and fitness.  He really needed someone more in keeping with his own ability.  I therefore suggested that, via Glenn's blog, he send Glenn an email.  Lee isn't exactly pushy when it comes to some things - like this.  So kept finding excuses (Lee is adamant they weren't excuses and he was genuinely going to contact Glenn) but I was tired of waiting for this to happen.  So, in keeping with my own personality, I just jumped right in there and sent Glenn an email one evening when Lee was at work one night.  The email explained how Lee and I had seen Glenn (infact having read his blog and watched so many of his videos regularly in the preceding days - some might actually call it Stalking !), and how we had admired him and tried to explain how inspirational he was.  I ended by suggesting that he might like to go for a bike ride with Lee sometime.  I worded it carefully to make it easy for him to refuse in case he wasn't interested.

This was the Fate Date - 23rd March 2014.  Within an hour of sending the email I had received a response !  With anticipation I opened it, wondering what Lee's response might be when he found out, especially if Glenn had told me to naff off thinking I was some weird stranger.  Anyway I opened the email and was thrilled to see that his response was fantastic - he was thrilled at my email and was definitely up for a ride out with Lee.  I exchanged another email saying Lee would be over the moon but that he was at work and that he'd be sure to email Glenn when he was back home.

That was it - from us all meeting each other, and Glenn's friend John, we instantly hit it off and from that date to this - they've all been out on loads of bike rides and had some amazing fun (and perhaps some not such fun times .... reference:  Pickles (watch the video and it'll all make sense)).  Mostly though, they've had a great time in all weathers.

Happy days ahead.  Glenn was such an inspiration to us and as we found out more about him, we really wanted to help in any way we could.  Lee had met 2 local lads with likewise enthusiasm on cycling and general philosophies on life.  Perfect.  (In fact Lee and Glenn are so alike its uncanny .... their habits, their perfectionist idealism, their interests and the list can go on).

Well that was it - life couldn't be more perfect - or so I thought ......

Time for another cuppa ?

Now since January 2014 I had complained of a stuffy nose and congested head - exactly the same kind of symptoms you get with a head cold.  I didn't feel shivery or ill - just had what we up in the north would describe as 'a right snotty nose'.  By mid February it hadn't shifted and by now I had a blocked ear too (I'd describe this as that kind of blocked ear when you go swimming and you've got water trapped in it).  I tried all ways to release the water (as I had been regularly swimming too - so naturally thought it was trapped water).  As neither my congestion or blocked ear were improving I decided to visit the Docs.  He told me to go and take more decongestant tablets (I'd already taken a few courses) and if it hadn't shifted in 2 weeks time to return to the Docs.  Before 2 weeks was up I went back - it obviously wasn't going to shift.  The Doc referred me to a local ENT clinic.  I had to wait over 4 weeks for this appointment.  When it came the examining Doctor stuck a camera up my nose, had a good look round then into the back nasal cavity where he found 'a growth'.  He tried to reassure me and said that often these things amount to nothing but that it was important to have it checked out quickly just to be sure.  So he made a referral to a local hospital for a biopsy.

Within 2 weeks I had this appointment (23rd April 2014 - exactly 4 weeks after Fate Date) and with a little bit of nervous tredipation attended hospital for the procedure.  When I was awake from the anaesthetic and back up on the ward, feeling OK considering, and drinking lots of water the Consultant came to see me at my bed side.  He confirmed he was 'very very concerned' with what he had found.  I instantly filled with dread and he stated that he wanted to see me in 1 week when he would have the results back and he advised that my husband should be in attendance with me.

Lee was on annual leave this next week and together we spent a worrying time waiting for the results.  Whilst it was worrying, though, we somehow managed to spend that week with not one tear and filled with fun and laughter having little visits here and there - garden centres, shops and pubs (though I should make it clear I didn't drink - Lee however, clearly felt the need for a few tipples that week !).  It was a very loving time (actually it is always very loving), and I had told Lee I didn't want to spend the week in tears, moping around and feeling sorry for myself.  In hindsight we have both acknowledged how we found it hard to use the word 'Cancer' during this week.  I imagine this is something many people affected by cancer (patients and their families) find at first.

The week passed quickly and it was time to visit the hospital and receive the results.  We arrived on time and unfortunately the clinic was running late.  About an hour after our appointment time we were called into a room with the Consultant and what I now know to be a MacMillan Nurse - Kelly, who is absolutely lovely.  The Consultant asked me how I was feeling and I described this in both physical and emotional terms.  He then talked a bit (it's all actually a bit of a blur and I just don't recall any of it) other than him confirming that I had a malignant tumour - ie, cancer.  I engaged in conversation back with him and then it hit me there and then and my head fell into my hands.  Lee immediately wrapped his arms around me whilst I had some tears - actually not many - just a few - enough to release the shock of what was now confirmed.
 

After more discussion (again I don't really recall much of this) Lee and I left the hospital.  I had planned to meet my son that afternoon to update him on the results.  We wanted to do this before we told anyone else.  So we met Brynn and then made calls and sent texts to both of our families, apart from Lee's Mam who was in Cyprus.  I was adamant I didn't want her to know until she returned as I knew it would just spoil her holiday.

Around this time, we had become aware of Glenn wanting to raise money for Arctic ONE, a charity who supports abled and disabled people who have been affected by cancer to get into sport regardless of their ability.  They are keen to contribute to research that looks to identify the correlation between cancer prevention and sport and treating cancer related disease.  Glenn is being sponsored by them to receive a running blade and in return Glenn wanted to raise money for them.

So, again in my kind of way (and I suspect to the distaste of some people), I decided to announce my condition to others via facebook and wanted to use this as an opportunity to start and raise funds for Glenn and Arctic ONE and all of the other people that they support.  So in one breath I was telling everyone I had cancer and in the same breath asking them for donations.

Some people have commented how inspirational this has been and how amazing that I'm thinking of others when facing this horrific news myself.  The truth is though, that if I didn't have something positive to focus on and someone as inspirational as Glenn to admire, then psychologically I'd be in a very dark place with constant tears, feeling hopeless, pretty much alone, and desperately worried.

I had considered therefore that perhaps I am inanely selfish ! but have quickly (and thankfully) concluded that I'm not - because the truth is that Lee and I had very much wanted to help Glenn anyway - even before this disease was diagnosed.

However, I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to me to have something as positive as Glenn and Arctic ONE to focus my attention on.

So who would have known that when I sent that email to Glenn on 23rd March 2014 for nothing more than Lee to have a cycling buddy that all along I had cancer and the real fate was not in Lee having a local bloke to go on a ride with but was actually to bring us all together to help support each other in what all 3 of us are going through. 

As I type this up, Lee is out on a ride with Glenn and John and I'm encouraging Lee to do as much cycling as he can, because I know that this will help him through the emotional roller coaster he's about to embark upon and there's nothing I want more than to ensure Lee gets every bit of support he needs.   He is an amazing man that both myself and Glenn will benefit from hugely.

So I ask of anyone reading this to do just one very simple thing .............. please give £1.00 by clicking on the below link.

Proportionately speaking your donation is worth far far more than the £1.00 that will leave your pocket.  It will help, directly and indirectly:

Me

Glenn

Lee

and the 100s of people that Arctic ONE will be supporting over many years - adults, children, able bodied, disabled, parents, carers and the list goes on.

Thank you so much for donating.

Glenn's Virgin Money Giving on behalf of Arctic One

Going back to my first paragraph ...... when I said that (referring to Glenn) we were undoubtedly looking at something special .... then we truly were and only now can we see just how special !
  

Thanks Glenn for all of your support.  This friendship was just meant to be. 

XXXX

Thank you for writing this fantastic blog and also for all your kind words. I'm so glad to have met both yourself and Lee and my friendship and support will be there always.

XxX