Adaptability ’26
“The most important factor in survival is neither intelligence nor strength but adaptability.” Charles Darwin
This week’s conversation is adaptability, and this is an important subject, as humans we often resist change. Cambridge Dictionary state that adaptability is an ability or willingness to change to suit different conditions.
When I think of change, whether wanted or not, it does take some time to adjust. This month is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and this lends me to my story from six years ago.
I finally worked out in August of 2020 that something was going on and booked the appointment with my GP to commence the process of diagnosis. A referral to the radiographers then highlighted a biopsy was required and this confirmed stage 3 breast cancer of quite a significant size. Meeting the surgeon occurred quickly and surgery was planned for the 1st of September.
I recall leaving the initial session from the radiologist overwhelmed and managed to get back to the GP to organise the referral with the reception staff. I then went to work to cancel all my appointments for the day (it was a Friday), rang my husband with the news and went home to cry in private. During my drive home the GP called, she wanted me back in her office. We had already booked a follow up for Monday and I let her know that I needed to go home and start the grieving process before I dealt with anything else.
My husband came home after work (I asked him to stay) and we discussed going forward and what they may look like. As always, we don’t know what we have never experienced and this was a new set of rules and instructions. I took some time off post-surgery to heal and to wait the next chapter and then the appointment with the oncologist commenced the plan.
Chemotherapy for an amount of time and then radiation. Our region did not have a radiation centre during my time, so I choose to go to Geelong for this treatment. Thankfully, I was able to stay with my friends during this time. Without their support, it would have been so much more difficult. I am so pleased that others experiencing cancer and radiation, may have the option of being closer to home (providing the centre can cater for their cancer).
Yes, I adapted to the change and whilst it initially was not easy, I believe that I did not have much of a choice. Life was going to change regardless of what I thought.
Whilst it was not an easy time and COVID restrictions were in place, the virtual support and then physical support of my family and friends was so needed.
Adapting is often essential.