“Your cancer journey begins here” were among the first words quietly spoken by a gentle A&E consultant. A thunderbolt out of the blue, totally unexpected as thousands before me can attest.
Secondary tumours are showing in three areas of my brain. I’ve decided to call them uninvited and unwelcome guests. The primary source has not yet been found since all facts gathered have yet to be correlated.
Until this has happened I must patiently wait. I agree with others who’ve said the waiting is the difficult part.
I decided to do a blog with the support of my wonderfully talented writer – daughter. This is to keep me on track and save repetition of facts and news to anyone interested.
I am lucky, extremely so, to be surrounded by a large loving family including my soul mate husband of 50 years with whom I share five brilliant children, their spouses and seven gorgeous grandchildren plus siblings and their families. More introductions of my family in the future since they will all play a role in my management of this illness.
I think about the poem Invictus and the line: “I am the captain of my soul…” How can I complain about today’s news? But, human nature being what it is, I am sure I will do as the ‘journey’ continues.

I am a person of faith, who follows the Catholic Christian tradition, and I’m a great believer in the power of prayer as a healer and calmer.
So if you are my family or friend, please pray for me. Join Pauline’s Prayer Posse and offer prayers not just for me but for all those I meet on my journey, whether they be other patients or health professionals working their socks off for us all.
x
We love you so much xx
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Love you and will be with you every step of the way Mum xx
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Yes we will be with you for every second of this journey. You’ll never be alone. Love you.xx
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Sending you lots of love and well wishes Pauline, thinking of you xxx
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Not really one for writing but for you Pauline I’d write a billions words, only one word is needed. ‘loved’
We will all be with you every single step….
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My heart (for what it’s worth) goes out to you sis
Xx
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R Pauline , you truely are a amazing, inspirational , beautiful lady, thinking of you and all family through these tough times always , huge love and hugs Donna and Gracie xxxx
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Love you, here for you on every step of this journey Mum xxx
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Such lovely words to start your journey.
Stay strong and positive.
Much love,
Matthew x
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We are thinking of you every minute. Lots of love, Helen & Paul xx
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Pauline, what beautiful yet inspiring strong words, not only to people living with cancer but to people living life. I truly believe that a strong mind, along with the amazing family & friends you have beside you, the battle is already won.
“Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference”.
With you & your family all the way. ❤️ Love from, Louise, Andy, Holly & Darcy ❤️
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You’re an amazing woman, Pauline..always have been, always will be!
Sending you and your beautiful family lots of love and best wishes for the journey that lay ahead.
Katie Sykes – Proud member of Pauline’s prayer posse! 😘
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Inspiring as ever Mrs B.
You’re such a special family, sending love and prayers to all of you throughout this journey.
Much love,
Catherine & the James’ xxx
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Sending lots of love to you all and will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Anne & Larry.xx
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Such inspirational words from a brave and beautiful soul. Much love now and always. Whatever I can do to help you and your family is always a given ❤️ Xxx
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Sending love and prayers Pauline to you and your family.
Maureen Johnson Xx
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