What Is 17 May All About? #HNC. 5 Years. 32/2022.
It’s 17th May 2022 as I write.
I wasn’t planning a post but this date “made me do one”.
It’s because 17 May 2017 was a hugely significant day in my life, as it was the day I was told I had squamous cell carcinoma in my upper gums.
The story has been told in a few places, here for the first post, by me, but today I want to use pictures more than words!

Marking the time I knew I had cancer.

My progress: 2017 into 2019

2019: 2 years ‘reward’
- Memories
- 17 May 2020
- 16 May 2021
And going to Sydney to see Hamilton as my 4th year ‘reward’…very special:
Each May, I have both remembered and because of my relatively good progress with recovering from this form of cancer I had, I like to appreciate my teams and my healing body too. And to my husband and family and friends (on-line and off!) : you all help my healing with your kindness, love and care. Thank you.
- On our way home after November 2017 Day Surgery.
- Very sore mouth!
- Leaning on B. Very kind and caring human
- Our family visited me. Both of our kids and their kids. Lovely.
- Mouth continues to change
- Post 2nd surgery check
- With Dr Deshpande: prosthodontist
- Connecting with 4 grandkids in school hols.
- My 70th Birthday
- Dad with me 2019.
- 2022…going well.
- Our Son Visits In Aug 2020
And now: 5 years on.
I admit it feels somewhat surreal. Perhaps I couldn’t ever see it coming? No matter, it has arrived. I am here. I am very glad to be well. Here’s my photos from today: Tuesday 17 May 2022.
- Same calendar…different day!
- Clock marks the exact time.
- Us. Selfie on 17.5.2022.
Special way to remember:
The word ‘heart’ means a great deal to me after using the song, Heart, as part of my self-care and courage building on my many, many drives to and from Westmead for long stays in the chair…and of course, heart is connection to those I love, and who love me…and the universal message of love is about caring.
My ‘gift’ to me is this: a bracelet with links of hearts and infinity symbol because love is forever….
Thank you to everyone from my heart.
Denyse.
17.05.2022.
Joining in with Natalie for Weekend Coffee Share later this week.
Thank you Natalie.
https://natalietheexplorer.home.blog/
Your comments are appreciated & read by Denyse who always replies.