It reminded me of the moment I had to break the news to my own children about my cancer diagnosis.
Back in 2018, amid our busy lives as a GP in the NHS and a consultant gastroenterologist, my husband and I had two young children aged six and seven.
Despite our demanding jobs, we initially brushed off signs like fatigue and blood in my stool as minor issues, attributing them to piles.
Balancing work and family responsibilities often leads to overlooking personal health concerns.
This was also true for me as a doctor, taking my health for granted.
Like the Princess, I was in good shape – 39 years old, healthy lifestyle habits, and overall well-being except for some persistent tummy problems and fatigue.
It was only after a vacation in Italy where I started losing weight that I sought medical help, suspecting it could be irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
My husband, who worked with the National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme, speculated it might be inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
However, the reality was grim.
A colonoscopy unveiled a dark mass indicating stage 3 bowel cancer.
The diagnosis brought a whirlwind of emotions, especially the challenge of disclosing it to my children.
It was heart-wrenching to shatter their innocence and disrupt their safe world with the news of my illness.
Deciding to be honest with them early on was crucial.
Similar to the Princess’s approach with her youngest son, Louis, I believed transparency in simple language was vital for their sense of security.
Balancing the need to protect them with the uncertain future was daunting, but I knew maintaining a semblance of normalcy was essential for their well-being.
Telling my children about the diagnosis was met with varied reactions – from nonchalant responses to emotional outbursts.
Witnessing the impact on my loved ones was equally distressing, but I strived to shield them from my lowest moments.
The transition from caregiver to patient was especially challenging, as was coping with the loss of control over my life during treatments.
Navigating life post-cancer posed its own challenges, including fears of recurrence and battling post-traumatic stress disorder.
The constant scans and the looming “scanxiety” added to the mental strain, but therapy and engaging distractions helped me cope.
Today, living with a sense of urgency, I cherish moments with my children, knowing the fragility of life.
Reflecting on the Princess’s journey and the resilience needed in such trying times, I can relate to the emotional rollercoaster she must be facing.
Witnessing her strength and determination in her video, I see parallels in our struggles to remain steadfast for our families amidst adversity.
My son’s insightful perspective on finding positives in the midst of the hardship resonates deeply.
Despite the tears, laughter, and moments of strength, I am grateful for the resilience my children have witnessed, just as I believe the Princess of Wales will demonstrate in her own battle.
Dr.
Anisha Patel's book, "Everything You Hoped You’d Never Need To Know About Bowel Cancer," sheds light on the emotional and physical journey through cancer, offering valuable insights into resilience and hope for those facing similar challenges.
This account was shared with Maria Lally.