2023 has almost ended, and it was a year of ups and downs. This is how it was:
Healthwise
The year started with my chemo pills (Cabometyx) not working properly and the methastases growing again. So it was decided that it would be best to undergo a series of radiography sessions. These took place early in March. All went well until early June, when I had heavy cramps in my stomach and was sick all the time. One morning, I was taken to the ER and there it was decided that I needed urgent surgery. Afterwards I was told it was touch and go and even the surgeon didn't rate my chances very high. I had a stomach perforation, most likely a side effect of the radiation. But I woke up after surgery and only had to spend one night at the intensive care unit. By now the scar has healed well. This surgery had a couple of positive effects. Instead of taking chemo pills I had to start up immuno therapy. I seem to have no problems with that. By now I've had 4 courses already. And another thing: I can eat well again and even can enjoy a glass of wine of champagne! Last Sunday we went dining for my sister's birthday, and I finished the entire 6-course menu with suiting wines.
Weather
2023 has been a year of big heat (June and September) and for lots of rain and wind. Most of the time it looks like autumn. It doesn't freeze or snow.
Finances
Last year in December we could sell our flat at the North Sea coast (Knokke-Heist). Thanks to the nice price we received (an offer from somebody who really wanted the flat) we could start renovations in our house and we also could travel a lot.
We had the electricity in the house completely revised and also we placed new windows and doors in the entire house. Ceilings have been lowered and isolated. Old furniture has gone and has been replaced by custom made new one.
And in the course of the year, we have gone to Antwerp, Brussels, Manchester, London, The Hague, Amsterdam, Dresden, Iceland, Spain, Qatar, Montenegro, Morocco.
Conclusion: the year has ended a lot better for me than the one before!
