Introduction: A Sudden Pivot in Life’s Path
If you’ve kept abreast of the European dressage scene, you’re likely familiar with Pippa El Derby. An accomplished rider and esteemed instructor, her life took an unexpected turn in November when she received a shocking diagnosis - breast cancer. As she and her husband Adam were gearing up to expand their family, this news undid their careful plans, throwing the future into uncertainty. Here, Pippa shares her journey grappling with physical and emotional hurdles that have arisen since her diagnosis.
The Deafening Blow of a Diagnosis
Though Pippa is tackling it with courage, her diagnosis was a devastating blow. Her initial shock was steeped in disbelief, “Never do you think it's going to happen to you," she says. "You always think it's going to happen to someone else.” This sage wisdom, it seems, rings true for all, doesn’t it? Adding to her dismay was the realization that her roadmap to starting a family was grossly disrupted.
Lives on Hold: Impacts on Career and Personal Life
As Pippa battles her disease, it's had a knock-on impact on her professional and personal life. Her routine of daily riding and teaching has screeched to a halt as she goes through cancer treatments. She loves her work, so this pause seems like salt on an already stinging wound. Moreover, she has to grapple with the fact that starting a family has been suspended indefinitely, she also bears the emotional burden of contemplating a childless future.
Solace in the Saddle: Therapeutic Role of Animals
Not all in Pippa’s life is shrouded in challenges, however. She finds much-needed comfort in her animals. Her horses, oblivious to her ordeal, have been a source of constant comfort. "They don't care about my hair loss or my scars," she shares. "They just care about me being there and loving them." Trust an animal to show us a lesson or two on unconditional love!
Facing Younger Women’s Battles: Specific Issues of Breast Cancer
Her situation also sheds light on unique trials faced by younger breast cancer patients. Diagnosis at a younger age often brings with it a separate set of challenges than for older women. Needless to say, Pippa’s experience underlines the need for dedicated research and support for this demographic.
Conclusion: Pressing On
Life hasn’t exactly been kind to Pippa recently, but she’s holding her own. Her story reminds us of the pressing importance of early detection and the need for extensive research about the causes and treatment of breast cancer. As she navigates through her treatment and carves out her future trajectory, she remains thankful for the comfort from her loved ones and, of course, her (hairy) therapists!
