June, six months into the year, brings warmer weather and longer days. Seasonal change provides a view into the outdoor world’s evolution.

Last year at this time, I had received an unexpected diagnosis and was starting treatment. Despite two separate diagnoses and their toll on my body, I’ve found joy and accomplishment in writing and art this year. This month I am working on the final edits of my novel. My beta readers who have followed the story from earlier revisions have given me positive responses on the final manuscript. Later this month, I will submit page one to a contest.

On this journey, I have met some amazing people with similar diagnoses. Managing long-term diseases, complicated treatments, and various doctors requires strong mental health support; a support group acts as a safety net. I’ve gained valuable coping strategies from the support groups I’ve joined.

My emotional well-being, writing, journaling and creative recording techniques, has made this journey tolerable. Last month, I took my first Art Healing class, which was fascinating. When I’m feeling mentally and physically drained, working on my chosen piece is soothing.

You’ll see the exciting event I attended last month and other updates on my YouTube channel.

Happy June to you!

Image by Hans from Pixabay