My side of the story

What a rollercoaster ride the last two and a half weeks have been! To tell you that our world has changed since the 12th of May would be putting it lightly. It's amazing how I, for one, have been taking our good health as a given, and how the change in this assumption has influenced our perspective.

Lourika has written a lot about what has taken place, as she has been to all of the hospital visits on her own while I were looking after the lads. On Thursday last week our kind friend Liezel Lotz looked after the two boys (and her own two girls!) so that Lourika and I could meet with the surgeon who would be taking charge of the treatment if we decide to remain in the UK. IT's somewhat ironic that if surgery is required - and this seems quite likely - that it will be done my Mr. Carpenter. Why Mr. and not Dr.? Many centuries ago surgery started out of the barber trade, and in order to distinguish themselves frmo the physiscians, they opted for the title of Mr. (or Miss) , and it's used to this day.

We met with him at St Bartholomew's Hospital in the City. I immediately felt relaxed when I met him - he seems very confident about the way forward, and it's clear that he is quite experienced in his field. He discussed the probable way forward, although this depends on outcome of the final test results, and Lourika's appointment with the oncologist. In all likelihood Lourika will have six chemotherapy sessions over four months, followed by surgery.

Speaking of the test results; it seems that the cancer has not spread beyond her breast and lymph nodes under her arm, so that was great news. As the doctor told Lourika: "You're young, you're healthy, and you just happen to have a lump in your breast. So go and relax in South Africa for a couple of weeks, and we can fight this once you are back." So that's where Lourika and the boys are at the moment, while I am writing this from a room on the 24th floor of the Hotel Jen in Hong Kong. I am here for business, and am relieved that we long ago decided that Lourika, Hugo and Ivan spend this time in SA.

Thanks to every one who has supported us through phone calls, text messages, e-mail, and most importantly their prayers. Never before have we physically been so far removed from our loved ones, but felt so close because of the overwhelming messages of love, hope and support that we have received. You do not begin to understand what this means to us!

Until next time!

Andries