Day 10: Dear 16-year-old-me.

Today Wego has challenged us to write a letter to our 16 year old self... I think I could of written for hours but then part of the magic of growing up is the mystery, learning for yourself and treading the unknown. So here's what I ended up with.

 

 

Dear 16-year-old-me,

 

You’ve had diabetes for 6 years now. Keep remembering that it isn’t the enemy. I know it’s frustrating but there’s no point fighting it. The pump is a possibility already, you should really think about it.

Dad has cancer, he’s going to get a lot worse but he’ll pull through and forge forward like he always does. Dad pulls through because of his mind. You know he is incredible at being positive and not letting stress get to him, this sometimes annoys you but you need to remember this and do the same– it’s the key to good health. Every time you have a period of extreme stress or sadness you will get sick. Try your very best not to get down or let things get to you – deep breaths do work and so does that hippy instrumental CD with the two tecnhi-coloured guys on the front that mum has. You steal it during uni to level out to before big exams. It works every time, through a Bachelor of Social Science, a MBA and beyond…hey perhaps you’re on to something.

Don’t panic that you’re not sure what you want to do with your life, but definitely consider that niggling feeling about being a nutritionist or dietitian a bit further, it’s still here ten years later!

Try to get mum out in the community now, she needs it – an exercise group, charity, the gym, it doesn’t matter! Help your brother to get mum to quit smoking and definitely don’t go and get them for her – don’t give in, it is the right thing to do.

When you’re 17 you’ll get caught in an intense teenage crossfire. Not used to such situations, you’ll feel like yelling at your mum that you hate her, don’t do it – it’s not worth it and you’ll beat yourself up for years over it. If it does slip out, don’t beat yourself up.You're a good person.

Go see Nana and Roy more often – they won’t be with us much longer.

Most of all, keep doing what you’re doing. There are ups and downs ahead but life is interesting that way. Just remember to stand your ground and be confident in who you are: never be afraid to lead -otherwise people might sometimes take you for the doormat.

Eat well and exercise plenty. Your mind and body function best that way and give more back to you.

Be amazing.

Love you always,

Jessica