Mariska Kesteloo

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Light at the end of the tunnel

We still can’t believe it! 

We received the results of Christophe’s treatments, finally! It is strange because since the surgery in March we had no idea what the status was or is of the tumor. The day after the surgery on 11th March they made the last scan, and this is the normal procedure. And then a scan at the end of all the treatments which was at the end of November.  You don’t receive the results on the same day as the scan, you have to wait another week to receive the results. Despite you don’t want to think about it, it’s on your mind all day. We were a bit reluctant about the results because we knew it can happen that a new scan is required, or that the results give a different impression, or… We knew this from other patients.

Again, still the uncertainty…. Not knowing what to expect... During our last conversation with the oncologist, who laughed (which is already a miracle) was already a good indication but also he said that he was curious to see the current status of the tumor.

Wednesday at 4 pm, waiting the entire day to receive the results. In the hospital, the neurologist showed us two scans on her screen, the scan they made before the surgery, and one from last week. Two pairs of eyes staring at her screen and she showed us where the tumor was on the first scan, and showed us the second scan, and said, it’s gone. There’s just a bit of ‘scar tissue’ but the tumor is gone. We thought of so many scenarios, but NOT this one! THE TUMOR IS GONE. It’s incredible, and until today we still can’t believe the news. Especially as you know that the majority of the patients don’t even arrive at this stage…. Even the doctors were surprised to see these results, because it’s extremely rare.

And a funny thing; you want to kiss each other to celebrate the good news. Have you ever kissed someone with a mask ;-)

For all of you who are going through tough times!  Yes, miracles do happen and yes, there’s light at the end of the tunnel, also in this crazy year.

In the hospital they are convinced the success is only due to the regular treatments, the conventional way. We are convinced that it’s a combination of the conventional way and your mindset, your food, extra vitamins, walking or exercises, your surroundings and perseverance. You can do so much more! And see the results :-)

We know that Christophe is not cured, it’s the start of a new process, a new life, it feels for us almost like a new beginning. The tumor might come back, even after all those treatments, but when, how, what, if, we don’t know (and we don’t want to know). Every 3 months he will be back in the hospital for a scan, to keep track of the status. This our biggest mission, to remain tumor free.

Our lives have changed for good. We remain positive and optimistic, and it’s unbelievable that we have now again a future together, a positive perspective for 2021. And next year in February, he would like to start working again, of course step by step. Which is another miracle, because the chance that he would be able to work again as a chemical engineer was almost impossible. The reaction of his colleagues receiving the news that the tumor is gone and that he would like to go back to work, were so heartwarming and touching! This gives Christophe another positive boost to come back. Which means C. de Belg will be back next year. Be aware!

With this amazing news, I can finally write the end of my book. I couldn’t think of a better ending, it’s more than perfect. Just trying to find some time! For those who already signed up (thank you very much ) , it’s in the final stage, just have a little bit more patient. If you are interested to read my stories about how I experienced 2020 including all the challenges that came across my path and how did I remain positive in this crazy rollercoaster; go the next page on my website and pre-order the e-book. In the book you will find practical tips and suggestions, that might be helpful for you or for others in your surroundings.

Experiencing this rollercoaster, I decided not just to write a book, but also to share my personal story on stage (nowadays online) and November was the first opportunity. Which was completely new for me, going out of my comfort zone. Have you ever tried to control your emotions on stage? That’s not easy. But I did, and I’m proud of it. And I hope many more opportunities will follow soon to inspire others how to remain positive and optimistic in these crazy times. Because the tumor is gone, but the pandemic not…. Especially writing this story now when we are in a full lockdown.

From a business perspective, I never thought that 2020 would end so hopeful and positive. In the first quarter of 2020 everything stopped, literally everything I had and look now; My portfolio is filled with new, amazing clients, my team is growing and 2021 looks very promising. Another miracle :-) Never give up!

I wish you all a happy Christmas and a healthy, joyful, positive and eventuful 2021, stay strong! Sending you positive vibes and energy from the Netherlands.

Looking forward to see live soon somewhere on the globe.