Weekly Round-Up: In Memory of Audrey

Welcome back, dear readers. I’m delighted to share this week’s blog highlights with you.

In her latest post, Beth describes the emotional turmoil she’s experiencing after her long-time oncologist retired. This event has triggered feelings of abandonment and fear, as she navigates finding a new medical team and grapples with the uncertainty of her health future. She also shares how she used art as a coping mechanism during this difficult time, finding solace and a sense of calm in the creative process.

Connie has arrived at the Camino.

Abigail discusses the challenges faced by individuals with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) in accessing supportive care programs and highlights the importance of patient-led initiatives in bridging this gap.

Barbara shares emergency-preparedness tips for breast cancer patients.

Sue highlights the importance of tenderness and practical action in supporting someone with cancer. Just showing up and being present can make a world of difference.

Carolyn‘s latest posts emphasizes the dangers of silent heart attacks, highlighting how they can go unnoticed, leading to delayed medical care and potentially severe consequences.

Terri reviews Phoenix Rising, Empower & Transform Through Breast Reconstruction by Mark Clemens MD, “a must-read for women on the journey to reclaim their bodies and their lives after breast cancer.”

Finally this week, I end on a heartbreaking note with the news of the passing of Audrey Birt. Audrey has been a key part of the weekly round-up for over a decade – her quiet, gentle presence adding a touch of warmth and wisdom to our community. Audrey’s contributions were always insightful, thoughtful, and filled with compassion. Beyond our online connection, we developed a real-life friendship and shared a deep love of poetry, particularly the poems of Mary Oliver. I had the privilege of staying in her love-filled home in Edinburgh, Scotland, when she invited me to teach a storytelling workshop—typical Audrey, to open her home to me rather than have me stay in an impersonal hotel. I saw first hand the devoted love between her and her husband Andrew. She adored her two children and was so excited to be a grandmother. Her loss will be deeply felt by all who knew her.

Yours with much love always

Marie xxx