Andrew Nolan FRSA

I hope this message finds you well. I'm not sharing this for sympathy, as I’m in relatively good spirits, thankfully. And my brother would NEVER post something like this, because he is a lot cooler than me. Today, March 13th, 2024, marked a unique moment for my family: both my brother (41) and I (43) had chemotherapy sessions at two different hospitals on the same day. It's a peculiar coincidence. We are the only two people in our rather large extended family with cancer. While this may seem unlucky, it’s not the focus of my message. I’m here to highlight two points: 1. We are both receiving AMAZING care, and are so grateful to all health professionals in our country and everywhere. These people are the heroes and saviours of the world, day in, day out. Health professionals, you are so, so awesome and I don’t think you can imagine how much we appreciate you. 2. Our world and living in it is busier and more complex than it ever has been. The hustle and bustle of modern life will not go away. As our ability to communicate, travel and work faster than ever before increases, I believe “things” are likely to become more and more complex each day. Today will probably be the least complex this big old organised mess will ever be, probably for the rest of time; or at least until something unimaginable (to me) and significant happens. In the midst of this, it's important not to neglect our health. Your wellbeing is invaluable, not just to you, but to everyone who loves and relies on you. You are irreplaceable. And probably bloody amazing. It would not be helpful for us all to become hypochondriacs, so please don’t do that. However, if you notice symptoms that are persistent and unusual for you – be it recurring headaches, abdominal pain, an odd-looking mole, blood in your poo, or any new, unfamiliar sensations – please, make an appointment with your GP. I learned this the hard way. In many instances, serious illnesses are preventable or more effectively treated when caught early. Your health is worth the time, and paying a bit more attention to your body could save your life 🌻