The 31 Dips of December

The 31 Dips of December. Carl and Cillene.

Carls Story :

On the 18th of May this year I received the terrifying news that I had non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnosed from a swollen tonsil that had been removed and was thought to have been an infection. The same day I met with the hematology consultant in Tallaght hospital were they explained to me what that meant and what treatment I would most likely need in order to beat this blood cancer.

Waiting for a full diagnosis of the disease and treatment possibilities was the slowest and scariest 10 days of my life with endless possibilities of bad outcomes and all the horror associated with cancer going through my head. I also had to watch how it affected my family and those close to me who did not have to deal with the disease but with the emotional trauma of seeing a loved one sick.

After 6 rounds of chemotherapy and an endless supply of antibiotics antivirals and all the other medication to keep me alive and able to manage the effects of chemo, I have been given the all-clear.

The nurses doctors and consultants of Tallaght Hospital Haematology ward are absolutely amazing individuals and made a horrible experience that much better with their competence, manner, and caring humanity.

I was astounded when I realized the level of support that the Irish Cancer Society provides for those going through their battle with cancer. The daffodil center, information pamphlets, transport, and support center are all provided through donations and offer essential support for those who need it in a time of vulnerability.

As the frigid waters of December embrace Both myself and Cillene, stand on the precipice of an endeavor that extends far beyond the confines of physical endurance. The 31 Dips of December challenge is not merely a test of willpower; it's a testament to the indomitable spirit that resides within each of us, a spirit that can rise above adversity and illuminate the path toward a brighter future.

This challenge is a tribute to all the people who have to bear the weight of this ailment a beacon of strength and unwavering optimism who defied the odds in their battle against cancer. Carl's resilience and unwavering spirit inspired me to join him and embark on this journey, to transform the icy embrace of winter into a catalyst for hope and healing.

With each plunge into the depths of the Wicklow Mountains, I'm not just immersing myself in the invigorating chill of nature; I'm diving headfirst into a cause that resonates with me. The Irish cancer society stands at the forefront of the fight against cancer, their unwavering commitment to groundbreaking research offering a glimmer of hope to those facing this formidable foe.

As a videographer and adventurer at heart, matched with Carl's outdoorsman ship chronicle we'll capture the journey through captivating edits and clips, capturing the breathtaking beauty of the Wicklow landscape and the transformative power of nature's embrace. These visuals will serve as a testament to the human spirit's ability to transcend adversity and find solace in the embrace of the natural world.

Your generous donation, no matter how small, will fuel our collective endeavor to combat cancer and pave the way for a future where this disease no longer holds sway over our lives. Every contribution, every act of kindness, every ripple of support will amplify our collective impact, creating a wave of hope that will wash over those facing the challenges of cancer.

Join us in this challenge, as we embark on a journey of transformation, where the icy embrace of winter becomes a catalyst for hope, healing, and unwavering support in the fight against cancer. Together, we can make a difference, one dip at a time.