Oman resident resolute in her fight against cancer
MUSCAT: “It just shows that anyone can get it, it can be luck of the draw, and that there might be things that you are not aware of.”
Those were the words of Emily Shotter, who, like many of Oman’s expat residents, calls the Sultanate her home. Last Thursday, Emily was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma, a type of blood cancer that attacks the white blood cells, or lymphocytes, in the bloodstream.
Emily, though, is unafraid of the challenges facing her: she will face them with her head held high, and with little fear.
“It is now very important for me to be mentally strong and stay the course,” said Emily, speaking to Times of Oman. “I am a strong person, and my friends would almost certainly describe me that way. I am also very positive, and that is very important, not just in terms of beating the cancer itself, but also in terms of your attitude towards what you can do and what you can achieve.
“It’s just about balance: enjoy life, but do make sure you are healthy, as well,” she added. “Cancer is something that can be very lonely at times, so I would advise people who are in a situation sim- ilar to mine to keep their friends around them, because I have really appreciated the love and support given to me. No amount of support is too big or small. I want to thank everybody who has offered me advice and constructive help; both friends and family.”
Cancer treatment and diagnosis, though, can be a physically, emotionally, and financially draining process: a fact Emily is fully aware of. “Time off from work is going to be an issue for me, as is continually flying to and from the UK multiple times to see an oncologist, to do more tests, and then to begin treatment,” she said. “I am very much going to stay in Oman; I have a job that I love, I have a life that I love, I have a home here, cats that I adore, and so I would rather be based here, but travel to the UK when I need to for consultations and treatment. If I am going to need longterm treatment, then I will look to see if it can be done in Oman. Full story @ timesofoman.com/oman