Kate B

How many miles?

My best friend of 30 years is once again going through breast cancer.

Her first diagnosis was five years ago. And now, here we are again.

If you ever want to learn something about strength, look at Jesse.

Her positive spirit is something else. Her laugh fills a room. But above everything, everything she does is centred around her two girls and their happiness. They are her absolute world. 

On Monday she had a mastectomy.

And she took it on like a complete warrior.

Of course there were tears… who wouldn’t cry after a major operation? But those tears felt like relief. Relief that this was progress. A step forward.

And it absolutely is.

For years I’ve watched people walk past my parents’ house raising money for The Royal Marsden. I always hoped we would never be touched by this disease.

Let alone my best friend.

And let alone a second time.

Some of my best memories in life are with Jesse.

We’ve laughed until we couldn’t breathe.

Partied harder than most.

And always had each other’s backs.

Her diagnosis does something strange to your perspective on life.

It makes you realise how precious everything is.

So I’ve decided to do the walk this year.

Because sometimes you just have to show up.

It’s also a reminder of something else…. put your phone down once in a while. Look at what’s around you. The people, the moments, the laughter.

We are far more in control of how we experience life than we realise.

You can choose how you show up.

You can choose how you respond.

You can choose to really live this life.

Or let it pass you by.

If you’re able to, please donate to support the incredible work of The Royal Marsden and the people who care for those we love.

(Truthfully, I’m also doing it because I need an excuse to buy new trainers… 😅)

So recommendations welcome.

And donations even more so.

❤️