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Princess Kate’s powerful words have made me realise 1 thing about cancer recovery
The writer, who has incurable bowel cancer, reflects on Princess Kate’s comments about the role of nature during cancer recovery. They say her recognition that there are good and bad days, and that time outdoors can matter, has prompted them to pay closer attention to small signs of nature as a source of comfort and hope.
Diagnosed in summer 2023, the writer’s annual resolution has been to go outside at least once a day, though cold, dark and wet weather can make that difficult. They describe birds in a street tree, flowers near their cancer hospital, an allotment by a bus stop and changing autumn leaves as simple ways to connect with nature. They plan to plant two bulbs on a windowsill and hope to see them flower in spring.
In short
- Princess Kate’s words prompted the writer to rethink their outdoor resolution.
- Small encounters with nature may bring comfort on difficult days.
- The writer plans to plant bulbs and hopes to see them flower.
Explained simply
Bowel cancer is a cancer that starts in the large bowel, which includes the colon and rectum. Some cases can be treated, while incurable cancer means treatment cannot remove the disease, though it may help manage it.
Cancer recovery and treatment can affect people differently, with better and more difficult days. Spending time outdoors is not a cure, but some people find nature comforting; even a nearby tree, flowers or plants at home can offer a small connection with the changing seasons.