Diving Into 2024
2023 was a mixed year.
It was filled with challenging times including being
ill with my Crohn’s disease, which has led to an anal fistula that needs
treating. I have had flu bugs and colds; have doubted myself on many occasions;
and have cried lots in toilets. Both loved ones and close friends have also had
to cope with their own personal health conditions; and it is difficult to watch
them go through these horrendous moments in their lives. This year also marked
three years since my dad passed away in his nursing home due to complications
with his multiple sclerosis. Every day we miss him. My love goes out to all of
you who have lost someone. It is never easy, but they will always be in our
hearts.
It was also a year filled with some great times
too. I have laughed over games of pool, poker and bowling; had trips into London
to go to immersive art galleries; taken part in some creative writing open mic
nights at University of Hertfordshire; and have spoken on the radio,
especially on Mix 92.6, to raise awareness of hidden disabilities and
mental health conditions. I have met so many amazing people, to which I can now
call my friends.
I have also been fortunate to have gone travelling,
including to Cornwall to see the beautiful Lizard Peninsula; St Ives; and Saint
Michael’s Mount; attended some fun and memorable shows at the Edinburgh Fringe
Festival 2023 in Scotland for my twenty-ninth birthday; walked by the rivers,
canals and waffle shops of Bruges and Ghent in Belgium; and hiked up to some
magical places in Switzerland with my cousin. It was 2019 when I last went
travelling with him to Slovenia, so it was fantastic to have had the chance to
go and do it again. I will never forget this.
Looking back, I did not set any concrete
resolutions for 2023. Instead, I wanted to spend time with family and friends,
which I have done; and I also managed to explore more of the world; as well as
raise more awareness of what it is like to live with Crohn’s disease,
dyspraxia, anxiety and depression.
Resolutions 2024
Like in 2023, I am not going to set any concrete
resolutions for 2024 as it does seem to be some expectation to achieve them.
However, like before, I want to spend time with the people who matter the most
to me; want to adventure more into the world both in terms of travelling but
also in terms of other relationships, careers and hobbies. I am also considering
completing another charity challenge or two for Crohn’s and Colitis UK and
Dyspraxia Foundation, among other causes.
This year marks ten years since I first started
blogging. Thank you for being there for me and listening to my experiences of
living with hidden disabilities and mental health conditions. I would not be here
without you. Take care of yourselves and each other, and let us hope the year ahead
is a kind one.
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| Let us hope the year ahead is a kind one...Copyright © 2023 Jake Borrett. All rights reserved. |
