In 2019 I experienced a life-changing event. I literally chose life over cancer. While the disease no longer exists in my bladder, it takes up space in my mind. For 2020, as I began my recovery, my new normal centred around medical appointments, self-care, and suddenly covid-19.

I can’t add anything novel about the effects of covid or cancer. What was normal just fades away. This year, I’ve adjusted to living without a bladder. Today’s celebrations are what we make them. So the gift of a catheter bouquet is a normal choice.