Life's Short Let's Laugh More - My Annual Sugiversary

On this day 21 years ago I returned home after major surgery (see pic below). I know hey, my eye brows are way too thin , but it was cool back then. 

This is how I looked, like I'd done 12 rounds in a bar brawl and then lost in the last round. I wasn't sure  if I'd ever look like me again.

So, picture this: My surgeon, bless his heart, says to me, "Hey, you might need a second surgery to put your head back together because, well, that pesky tumour decided to warp your skull."

Geez thanks! But hey, guess what? Thankfully, I dodged that bullet like a pro! 😇 Phew! An 8 hour surgery was enough for this 24 year old spring chicken, 

Life Lessons:

This pivotal time in my life taught me many things :

1. None of your Material Shit Matters When Your Health's on the Line

That collection of things you thought were super important? Yeah, not so much when your health takes a nosedive. I thought I was cool because I just got a new car and owned a fancy salom- Nope- Who cares! I'd happily trade it all for my health back. I actually did end up selling it all to travel and be free!

2. No More Excuses, Time to Rock Those Big Girl Panties 

Lesson two hits like a wake-up slap: stop procrastinating! I was the ultimate day dreamer. I wanted to travel - one day ! I wanted to work a season down the snow - one day. One day may never come so it's time to put on your big girl panties (or big boy boxers, no judgment here) and chase those dreams. Excuses are useless fluff!

(3 weeks post op: Still a bit of a freak show)

3. Gratitude Is the Ultimate Superpower

Lesson three: Every day you wake up with good health, throw a gratitude party! Seriously, it's like winning the lottery, except better because it's your health we're talking about and NEVER forget it can literally change in a heartbeat. One minute you're partying with your friends the next you're sitting in a hospital gown with your arse showing, oh and let's not forget the catheter.

 4. It's All About Your Ride-or-Dies 

Lesson four is a tearjerker: when life throws you a curveball, it's your ride-or-dies who step up to the plate. I was overwhelmed with support. Your family and closest friends are all that matters in these times and they will impact the success of your recovery greatly. Cherish those relationships like gold.

5. Listen to Your Body's Warning Signs

And finally, lesson five: your body? Yeah, it's got a hotline to your brain, so listen up! Don't brush off those warning signs like they're yesterday's news. Your health is your priority—treat it like the VIP it is. Don't overlook the warning ⛔️ signs your body gives you, they are there. Don't think you're too busy to go to the Drs or it couldn't happen to you. It can! If you've been putting something off this is your warning ⚠️ sign 🪧

(4 weeks post op: Slowly starting to look like myself, although it took months to feel like myself again)

This time in my life was a huge catalyst for change. Parts of me broke, while at the same time parts of me awakened and have never fallen back to sleep.

I'm deeply grateful.

This is THE reason I do what I do today.

Because your health matters, you matter and living life to the fullest and most boldest capacity matters.

Let's Celebrate  21 Years of No tumours. 

In great love and good health

Larissa xx