Please see article: Diary of a cancer diagnosis, life and everything-until I work out how to move the comments!
32 thoughts on “My first post”
Excellent journalism James.Sad and witty about an enforced journey of which you have been kidnapped and bundled in the boot.I can only assume that whilst in the trunk ( let’s get the Americans involved ) your senses will be hightened to fever pitch and every footstep you take will be in slow motion.I will follow this journey and look forward to the laughs which there will be.All my love Dermott x
Jim very brave of you to do a blog but it will help. Since I had my stroke I have posted everyday with a song on Facebook and it has helped me focus on my recovery. There are no quick fixes but be positive it’s the only way. That’s from someone who knows not a platitude from someone unaffected by life changes. You are obviously taking the positives from a negative situation by what you have written in the blog. My thoughts are with you and I will follow the blog. Keep smiling in the face of this even though you want to scream!
Jim I think that this beautiful,and very brave,you are expressing the thoughts and words and questions of all cancer sufferers all over the world and doing it with humility.In the 1980’s I went through this and I know what you are going through,I went a bit manic also,I wanted to do all the things that I thought that I had plenty of time for in the future somewhere,but the word CANCER made me stop dead in my tracks and rethink,I even bought a organ with three tiers of pedals keys etc,and taught myself to play IKnow bloody rediculous .However after chemotherapy I survived my gardian Angel was working overtime for me and here I am,still irritateing everyone. After twenty years,by the by I had bladder cancer.So I know your diary will bring some relief to a lot of people and help them to sort out their feelings.
Not ridiculous at all Maggie. I’ve started writing, playing my guitar and painting. Most importantly, I’m trying to be better than I am. Not something I can do alone. I’ve just met an inspirational chap at my first venture to the Gym in a month. Not by chance either. I’m writing about it today. Thank you for your kind words of encouragement.
Jim
What a brilliant idea to do this blog.Gives you the chance to explain how it feels and the thoughts that go through your mind. Are you quite young to get prostate cancer or is it the normal age for men to get it? Being young and fit should go in your favour when you start your chemo. I hear you are off on a lovely holiday in the sun around Christmas .Have a brilliant time and come back in fighting mode ???
When I went to see the Urology nurse she told me a rugby player had it. He told his team and they all got tested- three more were diagnosed! Early diagnosis is key, especially as it is usually more aggressive in younger men. If you search ‘the one show’ they carried out testing at Burton Albion football club for spectators. It’s surprising how common it is. Thanks, Jim
A very open, enlightening and humorous account Jim . I’m not an enthusiastic reader of anything longer than a sentence but reading this ‘ I was there ‘
… you are such a good man with a lovely family and great friends with unlimited support .. .anything is possible but in the meantime keep this going and we will be with you all the way …good on you , love from Bazza xxx
Enjoyed reading your blog Jim and look forward to reading many more. We only worked together for a very short time but I was struck by what a gentle person your were with the strength of a lion underneath!!! I’ve no doubt you’ll come out on top with your battle with cancer and have a loving family standing right by your side. Good luck with the coming weeks ahead.
Hi Jim. So sorry to hear about this. Brilliant blog, really interesting to read. Keep strong, you have a wonderful family by your side. It’s a long road ahead but I’m sure with the love of your family you will get there. We will all be with you on your journey through your blog. Love Paul and Tracey Walton xx
Jim so well written and such an important message. Today is the 21st anniversary of when my dad died and all I can say is that every footprint we leave is important and the memories do last forever – you are so right live every minute – here is to a successful treatment, a healthy outlook and a very very long blog! xx
What an amazing read Jim, you made me cry, you made me laugh but above it all you made me appreciate life more. Please keep up the writing and keep encouraging chaps to pay attention to themselves. Much love to you all! xxx
Hello Jim, You might not remember me, but I’m moved to say hi today and tell you what’s going on for me. I laughed when I read your blog about the giant stapler. It reminded me years ago when I went through an exploratory procedure when I saw what I thought was blood down the toilet. The procedure whilst not as invasive as yours was most definitely eye watering. The happy verdict was the all clear and the conclusion was that it was probably the beetroot I’d eaten the night before!
It’s courageous to share your story and it might prompt us to look a bit closer for irregular signs that need checking out – even if it does turn out to be ‘false alarm – good intent’. Over the years, my chorus, The Kingsmen have raised many thousands for the prostate cancer charity, the Chestnut Appeal, so how about raising the charity’s profile via your blog? I see the Chair is Carolyn Giles who used to be head of HR at Crownhill back in the 90’s. It’ll be a privilege to follow your story, Jim and I wish you well as you navigate the treatment path ahead. Best wishes, Stu
Thanks Stu. Of course I remember you- and all for good reasons. I’ve even seen you singing and thought what a great feeling it must be. Of course send, promote,share, divulge and scatter as far and wide as you like!
I looked at the Prostate cancer uk website and found it a bit depressing. I have my brother who can understand what it is like to have cancer. Some people have no one.
My hope is to raise awareness, and a laugh if possible.
What a brilliant blog Jim ,its great you are managing to keep a sense of humour ….by being open about your feelings you are helping Michelle so much ,Steve is very quiet with his thoughts and I wish he would be more open sometimes . You are right it was never going to happen to ‘us’ but it has and can happen to anyone ,please everyone don’t ignore symptoms it wont go away .Good luck in your battle i’m sure you will do each other proud x
James my dear fellow! I love a good wordsmith! I actually felt a bit guilty for laughing out loud (or ‘LOL’ as you youngsters say) To be honest, it reminded me of how you would tell a tale in the back of the TAG carrier on our travels. , reminding me of more carefree times. Even if all I can do is share the joy of the lighter moments, that’s what I’ll do. Big hugs. (In a ‘did-you-see-the-match-last-night’ kind of way, rather than something where the contact is a little too long causing embarrassment kind of way. Obvs. )
Jim,
You are a brave, decent man who doesn’t deserve the bad card you have been dealt. All I will say is feel the love and energy from everyone who knows you and is close to you. My thoughts and prayers , as such, are with you, and I wish you the best ju-ju, in these times of your life.
Amazing blog , you have a fantastic attitude to dealing with such an awful time , I look forward to eading more of you’re blogs and send you our best wishes for a sppeedy recovery from Sue and Mike …..ps we are friends of Liz and Graham x
Hi Jim, please keep the blog running, I think Ned Larkin summed it up in his comment above, incredibly brave of you, give MLC a hug from me, kettle is always on if you want a change of scenery ~ Regards Steve
Inspiring words from an inspiring man. I will be following your journey with as much interest and positive thoughts as I can find. All the best to you and yours
Jim, a fantastically honest humerous and raw account, please continue for your sake and for all of us enthralled by your writing, please know there is an Army behind you all pushing positive energy your way and towards your lovely family x x
Hi Jim,
One big pause after reading this blog wondering what I would say and how does this bloody technology work! A shock when I heard the news, not Jimbo he’s as fit as a fiddle, a quiet geezer, assured, steady and all around nice bloke. Another pause…… Your words are so calming and thoughtful,thought provoking as if we all need to stop and think about everything around us and the love from our family and friends. Don’t feel alone Jim , be brave, be positive and be you….
Hopefully see you next week with Darey and the dogs , god bless you buddy . Russ
Hi Jim, I feel very humbled to read your blog. You have a fantastic family to support you, and the wider Police family that is looking out for you so I am convinced you will be ok. Steve Green and family.
Ps I do a bit of part time work for patient transport at Torbay hospital and met Michelle’s sister. Lovely lady.
Hi Jim, I am a friend of your MIL and am so very impressed with your blog. Not only is it cathartic but very helpful to those who are also on their own personal journey. Unfortunately, there isn’t anything you can do about the diagnosis but you do have control over how you handle and deal with it. Some choose to deny, others are angry and depressed, and then there are those that say “it is what it is” and get on with the fight. Your blog will show those on the same journey that they are not alone and there will be good days and not so great days. You savor the good ones and accept and get through the bad ones. The positive thoughts surrounding you from Michelle, your family and friends will help you slay this beast. Best wishes from across the pond!
Hello Jim
You don’t know me, I’m reading courtesy of WRAC Provost f/book site. I don’t think I can say I enjoyed reading your blog, that’s not the word, but it is brave, funny and a compelling read. I look forward to reading more and getting to know you a little through your writing. Good luck sir.
Hi Jim,
You are very brave to share this blog, and having watched you play rugby am not surprised..!!! It has given me food for thought for sure. You are a top bloke with a top family to help support you through this extremely tough time. Keep battling mate. Edd
Hi Jim and Michelle…
I vividly remember the day at Newton Abbot Hospital when my Urologist, Mr Mason, sat me down with the results of my biopsy..”I’m sorry Mr Hess. You have cancer ….” The rest of the conversation was a blur…Now 4 years later it is all behind me, so to speak..Prostate removed by keyhole surgery at Bristol (they do it at Exeter now). There are some issues post op. Prostate UK does a very good information pack. But now I’m fine., just 6monthly blood tests. So keep positive and best wishes to you both …and if you want any info from me don’t hesitate to message me via Facebook or WhatsApp..
So sorry to hear your news Jim, what a fantastic blog you have written, it’s inspiring yet humouring, making me chuckle in parts. Lots of positive thoughts being sent your way. Xx
Jim, I read your story with a combination of sadness regarding your illness and what you and your family must be going through and admiration for your public bravery (and eloquence) relating to the blog itself. I wish you and Michelle all the luck and good will in the world and will follow your story with interest.
All the best,
Jim Bower
Jim – Just read the last instalment of your blog. Your strength, humour and wisdom comes over in your written words. You’ve had me laughing out loud one minute and bawling my eyes out the next! Doubtless there is an arduous journey ahead of you but I know you will face it head on, with the love, support and encouragement of your family and friends. Michelle will be your main support I know but don’t forget we are all here for you, and your family. Love to you all and keep up your blog – and your spirits xxxx
Jim – an excellent piece, you always were our first choice for writing the best reports and getting across what we wanted to say but couldn’t find the words. Thinking about you as you fight your battle – stay strong because you’re truly one of life’s good guys xx
Excellent journalism James.Sad and witty about an enforced journey of which you have been kidnapped and bundled in the boot.I can only assume that whilst in the trunk ( let’s get the Americans involved ) your senses will be hightened to fever pitch and every footstep you take will be in slow motion.I will follow this journey and look forward to the laughs which there will be.All my love Dermott x
Jim very brave of you to do a blog but it will help. Since I had my stroke I have posted everyday with a song on Facebook and it has helped me focus on my recovery. There are no quick fixes but be positive it’s the only way. That’s from someone who knows not a platitude from someone unaffected by life changes. You are obviously taking the positives from a negative situation by what you have written in the blog. My thoughts are with you and I will follow the blog. Keep smiling in the face of this even though you want to scream!
Jim I think that this beautiful,and very brave,you are expressing the thoughts and words and questions of all cancer sufferers all over the world and doing it with humility.In the 1980’s I went through this and I know what you are going through,I went a bit manic also,I wanted to do all the things that I thought that I had plenty of time for in the future somewhere,but the word CANCER made me stop dead in my tracks and rethink,I even bought a organ with three tiers of pedals keys etc,and taught myself to play IKnow bloody rediculous .However after chemotherapy I survived my gardian Angel was working overtime for me and here I am,still irritateing everyone. After twenty years,by the by I had bladder cancer.So I know your diary will bring some relief to a lot of people and help them to sort out their feelings.
Not ridiculous at all Maggie. I’ve started writing, playing my guitar and painting. Most importantly, I’m trying to be better than I am. Not something I can do alone. I’ve just met an inspirational chap at my first venture to the Gym in a month. Not by chance either. I’m writing about it today. Thank you for your kind words of encouragement.
Jim
What a brilliant idea to do this blog.Gives you the chance to explain how it feels and the thoughts that go through your mind. Are you quite young to get prostate cancer or is it the normal age for men to get it? Being young and fit should go in your favour when you start your chemo. I hear you are off on a lovely holiday in the sun around Christmas .Have a brilliant time and come back in fighting mode ???
When I went to see the Urology nurse she told me a rugby player had it. He told his team and they all got tested- three more were diagnosed! Early diagnosis is key, especially as it is usually more aggressive in younger men. If you search ‘the one show’ they carried out testing at Burton Albion football club for spectators. It’s surprising how common it is. Thanks, Jim
A very open, enlightening and humorous account Jim . I’m not an enthusiastic reader of anything longer than a sentence but reading this ‘ I was there ‘
… you are such a good man with a lovely family and great friends with unlimited support .. .anything is possible but in the meantime keep this going and we will be with you all the way …good on you , love from Bazza xxx
Fantastic blog, keep it up ??
Enjoyed reading your blog Jim and look forward to reading many more. We only worked together for a very short time but I was struck by what a gentle person your were with the strength of a lion underneath!!! I’ve no doubt you’ll come out on top with your battle with cancer and have a loving family standing right by your side. Good luck with the coming weeks ahead.
Hi Jim. So sorry to hear about this. Brilliant blog, really interesting to read. Keep strong, you have a wonderful family by your side. It’s a long road ahead but I’m sure with the love of your family you will get there. We will all be with you on your journey through your blog. Love Paul and Tracey Walton xx
Jim so well written and such an important message. Today is the 21st anniversary of when my dad died and all I can say is that every footprint we leave is important and the memories do last forever – you are so right live every minute – here is to a successful treatment, a healthy outlook and a very very long blog! xx
What an amazing read Jim, you made me cry, you made me laugh but above it all you made me appreciate life more. Please keep up the writing and keep encouraging chaps to pay attention to themselves. Much love to you all! xxx
Hello Jim, You might not remember me, but I’m moved to say hi today and tell you what’s going on for me. I laughed when I read your blog about the giant stapler. It reminded me years ago when I went through an exploratory procedure when I saw what I thought was blood down the toilet. The procedure whilst not as invasive as yours was most definitely eye watering. The happy verdict was the all clear and the conclusion was that it was probably the beetroot I’d eaten the night before!
It’s courageous to share your story and it might prompt us to look a bit closer for irregular signs that need checking out – even if it does turn out to be ‘false alarm – good intent’. Over the years, my chorus, The Kingsmen have raised many thousands for the prostate cancer charity, the Chestnut Appeal, so how about raising the charity’s profile via your blog? I see the Chair is Carolyn Giles who used to be head of HR at Crownhill back in the 90’s. It’ll be a privilege to follow your story, Jim and I wish you well as you navigate the treatment path ahead. Best wishes, Stu
Thanks Stu. Of course I remember you- and all for good reasons. I’ve even seen you singing and thought what a great feeling it must be. Of course send, promote,share, divulge and scatter as far and wide as you like!
I looked at the Prostate cancer uk website and found it a bit depressing. I have my brother who can understand what it is like to have cancer. Some people have no one.
My hope is to raise awareness, and a laugh if possible.
What a brilliant blog Jim ,its great you are managing to keep a sense of humour ….by being open about your feelings you are helping Michelle so much ,Steve is very quiet with his thoughts and I wish he would be more open sometimes . You are right it was never going to happen to ‘us’ but it has and can happen to anyone ,please everyone don’t ignore symptoms it wont go away .Good luck in your battle i’m sure you will do each other proud x
James my dear fellow! I love a good wordsmith! I actually felt a bit guilty for laughing out loud (or ‘LOL’ as you youngsters say) To be honest, it reminded me of how you would tell a tale in the back of the TAG carrier on our travels. , reminding me of more carefree times. Even if all I can do is share the joy of the lighter moments, that’s what I’ll do. Big hugs. (In a ‘did-you-see-the-match-last-night’ kind of way, rather than something where the contact is a little too long causing embarrassment kind of way. Obvs. )
And you can still make me laugh too, Steve!
Jim,
You are a brave, decent man who doesn’t deserve the bad card you have been dealt. All I will say is feel the love and energy from everyone who knows you and is close to you. My thoughts and prayers , as such, are with you, and I wish you the best ju-ju, in these times of your life.
Amazing blog , you have a fantastic attitude to dealing with such an awful time , I look forward to eading more of you’re blogs and send you our best wishes for a sppeedy recovery from Sue and Mike …..ps we are friends of Liz and Graham x
Hi Jim, please keep the blog running, I think Ned Larkin summed it up in his comment above, incredibly brave of you, give MLC a hug from me, kettle is always on if you want a change of scenery ~ Regards Steve
Inspiring words from an inspiring man. I will be following your journey with as much interest and positive thoughts as I can find. All the best to you and yours
Jim, a fantastically honest humerous and raw account, please continue for your sake and for all of us enthralled by your writing, please know there is an Army behind you all pushing positive energy your way and towards your lovely family x x
Hi Jim,
One big pause after reading this blog wondering what I would say and how does this bloody technology work! A shock when I heard the news, not Jimbo he’s as fit as a fiddle, a quiet geezer, assured, steady and all around nice bloke. Another pause…… Your words are so calming and thoughtful,thought provoking as if we all need to stop and think about everything around us and the love from our family and friends. Don’t feel alone Jim , be brave, be positive and be you….
Hopefully see you next week with Darey and the dogs , god bless you buddy . Russ
Hi Jim, I feel very humbled to read your blog. You have a fantastic family to support you, and the wider Police family that is looking out for you so I am convinced you will be ok. Steve Green and family.
Ps I do a bit of part time work for patient transport at Torbay hospital and met Michelle’s sister. Lovely lady.
Hi Jim, I am a friend of your MIL and am so very impressed with your blog. Not only is it cathartic but very helpful to those who are also on their own personal journey. Unfortunately, there isn’t anything you can do about the diagnosis but you do have control over how you handle and deal with it. Some choose to deny, others are angry and depressed, and then there are those that say “it is what it is” and get on with the fight. Your blog will show those on the same journey that they are not alone and there will be good days and not so great days. You savor the good ones and accept and get through the bad ones. The positive thoughts surrounding you from Michelle, your family and friends will help you slay this beast. Best wishes from across the pond!
Hello Jim
You don’t know me, I’m reading courtesy of WRAC Provost f/book site. I don’t think I can say I enjoyed reading your blog, that’s not the word, but it is brave, funny and a compelling read. I look forward to reading more and getting to know you a little through your writing. Good luck sir.
Hi Jim,
You are very brave to share this blog, and having watched you play rugby am not surprised..!!! It has given me food for thought for sure. You are a top bloke with a top family to help support you through this extremely tough time. Keep battling mate. Edd
Hi Jim and Michelle…
I vividly remember the day at Newton Abbot Hospital when my Urologist, Mr Mason, sat me down with the results of my biopsy..”I’m sorry Mr Hess. You have cancer ….” The rest of the conversation was a blur…Now 4 years later it is all behind me, so to speak..Prostate removed by keyhole surgery at Bristol (they do it at Exeter now). There are some issues post op. Prostate UK does a very good information pack. But now I’m fine., just 6monthly blood tests. So keep positive and best wishes to you both …and if you want any info from me don’t hesitate to message me via Facebook or WhatsApp..
So sorry to hear your news Jim, what a fantastic blog you have written, it’s inspiring yet humouring, making me chuckle in parts. Lots of positive thoughts being sent your way. Xx
Jim, I read your story with a combination of sadness regarding your illness and what you and your family must be going through and admiration for your public bravery (and eloquence) relating to the blog itself. I wish you and Michelle all the luck and good will in the world and will follow your story with interest.
All the best,
Jim Bower
Jim – Just read the last instalment of your blog. Your strength, humour and wisdom comes over in your written words. You’ve had me laughing out loud one minute and bawling my eyes out the next! Doubtless there is an arduous journey ahead of you but I know you will face it head on, with the love, support and encouragement of your family and friends. Michelle will be your main support I know but don’t forget we are all here for you, and your family. Love to you all and keep up your blog – and your spirits xxxx
Jim – an excellent piece, you always were our first choice for writing the best reports and getting across what we wanted to say but couldn’t find the words. Thinking about you as you fight your battle – stay strong because you’re truly one of life’s good guys xx