As 2014 drew to a close yesterday evening, I watched the most stunning sunset along the Bushmans River Mouth in the Eastern Cape (South Africa).  Incredible colours in the sky, reflected along the river; I could feel the trauma of the past 6 months drift away, out to the Indian Ocean, along with the tide.  I watched with my family – who have been my rock – as we bid the year farewell.  Today, Thursday 1st January 2015, is exactly 24 weeks since I had surgery.  I embrace this new year with a renewed energy, to continue to celebrate my health and my family and friends – near and far – who travel this journey with me. I’m acutely aware of my own privilege, in being able to access quality healthcare with ease, and never before has my work that focuses on equity in health felt more fitting.  It’s not been an easy ride; it isn’t easy and I know that some days will continue to be harder than others.  My frustrations relating to social injustice and inequity in health are manifest.  But I’m finding my way.  I’m feeling strong.  My body is recovering.  I’ll have my first 6 month monitoring visit at the end of January.  That makes me nervous but I rest assured in the knowledge that – regardless of the outcome of this first visit – I have the best network of folk to travel this journey with. And this includes the never-ending support from a new-found community of fellow BOT ladies. Thank you all.  Here’s to a happy and healthy 2015. xx