SUNDAY NIGHT SLIDES
This week, as I take the time to reflect on turning 30 surrounded by my nearest and dearest, I wanted to share the following insights from a powerful letter written recently by Elliot Dallen, 31.
A former Exeter University student and regular visitor to Durdle Door – wise beyond his years – who has just sadly passed away from a hard-fought battle with cancer.
In his own words...
The importance of gratitude
During my worst moments: the shock of cancer diagnosis, the mental lows and debilitating symptoms of chemotherapy, it was difficult to picture any future moments of joy, closeness or love.
Even so, at those times, I found comfort in remembering what I have: an amazing family, the friends I’ve made and times I’ve shared with them, the privilege of the life I’ve had.
A life lived well is long enough
Knowing that my life was going to be cut short has also changed my perspective on ageing. Most people just assume they will live into old age. I have come to see growing old as a privilege.
Nobody should lament getting one year older, another grey hair or wrinkles. Instead, be pleased that you have made it. If you feel like you haven’t made the most of this year, make your next one better.
Connect through vulnerability
We live in a society that prizes capability and independence – two things that cancer slowly strips away from you.
This was naturally a difficult pill to swallow for a healthy, able late-twentysomething male, but having to allow myself to be vulnerable and accept help has given me the best two years of my life, which was pretty inconceivable at the time of diagnosis.
Do good for others
Against the backdrop of COVID19, Black Lives Matter and the desperate attempts of migrants to cross the Channel, my thoughts really turned to those who have not had my privilege: whether that’s by virtue of socioeconomics, the colour of their skin or the country they were born in. I always try to remind myself of this.
Protect our planet
I can’t leave this off because it’s so important. I’ll be gone soon, but humanity will still be faced with the huge challenge of reducing carbon emissions and saving habitats from destruction.
In my time here, I’ve been lucky enough to see some natural wonders and understand how precious they are. Hopefully, future generations will be able to say the same. But it will take a massive collective effort.
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Elliot's final words to the world:
After the gut-punch of cancer diagnosis, I’ve really struggled to define a purpose for my own life. I found, in time, this came naturally: life is for enjoyment. Make of it what you can.
Go get it.
FEATURED SLIDE
From his family: "we are in the process of registering the Elliot Dallen Trust as a charity, but in the meantime, if you'd like to make a donation to Trekstock (an existing charity that shares Elliot's values) you can do so here. Trekstock helps young adults with cancer in the UK to thrive with, through and beyond a diagnosis of cancer."
In memory of Josh Taylor ❤️