Moving Forward: A New Year and A New Perspective

Good bye to 2025

Happy New Year.

May this year be better than the last.

That sentence carries more weight for me this year.

2025 had its ups and downs. Beyond the state of the world, my personal world was shaken. It began with a leap of faith—moving to a new city and selling my condo in Connecticut—and then came another diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

What followed was a major surgery, fear, anxiety, and the PTSD I hadn’t expected to revisit after 20 years. I was terrified. But I was also surrounded by support from friends, colleagues, and readers. Your messages, kindness, and check-ins carried me through. I’ll always be grateful.

And now—here we are.

2026.

A new year. A new direction. Upwards and onwards.

I just had my three-month scans. Today is my first DNA blood screening. Next week, we meet with the doctor. We’re hoping for the words we all want to hear: NED — No Evidence of Disease.

In the meantime, here’s what I’ve learned in the four months since surgery:

What I’ve learned

The Whipple is different for everyone.

Recovery depends on the tumor, the stage, age (a big one), and whether major veins are involved. Some people need drains or chemo. Some don’t heal as smoothly. I was fortunate—early detection (Stage 1) meant no chemo and a steadier recovery. It still took three to four months for my body—and brain—to feel mostly normal again.

Eating has normalized.

After a month of trial and error, I’m back to eating well—mostly whole foods, lots of salmon, chicken, and salads. I even ate sushi again. (Yes, the potato chips came back too. No disasters.)

Enzymes and insulin are a daily puzzle.

Timing matters. If I wait too long to eat, I feel it. Meals require planning, patience, and pills. It’s annoying, but it’s manageable—and I’m learning as I go.

Movement is back.

I’m doing Pilates again, and exercising three times a week is officially on the list for 2026.

Ready to work.

My brain is working again and I’m getting itchy for the next thing. I am looking forward to finding my new place, my future me and what I plan to do when I grow up.

Looking ahead

I’m not making grand declarations this year. No sweeping promises. Just steady steps forward, paying attention to my body, staying present, and living life.

Quiet strength. Forward motion. And showing up for whatever comes next.

Here’s to 2026.

Meredith's Musings