The phenomenal carrot and avocado salad at Departure, one of my favorite vegetable-oriented dishes in Portland in 2018.
Happy New Year!
Back in May 2018, I posted about taking a break from the blog due to some health issues. Although it has taken longer than I expected to get back in the swing of things, I’m happy to say that my health is much improved and and as under control as possible. The time is right to get back to food writing, something I’ve missed.
So what happened? In April I was diagnosed with stage 2A breast cancer. I went through two surgeries; at the start of the summer my tumor was sent off to a lab in California that analyzed its genes, determining that chemo was not necessary; and I went through 20 treatments of radiation. I feel very fortunate with the quality of care I received from my doctors, nurses, and technicians at Providence, and felt very confident in their skills and abilities. It was a singular experience, overwhelming at times, but I am glad to say that I made it through; I am a survivor.
Along the way I cut out alcohol and added sugars from my diet, and maintain that to this day. I do miss all the delicious ciders, beer, wines, and cocktails, though, and don’t begrudge anyone for enjoying them (dessert, too). I’ve made additional changes as well, and as a result am particularly interested in the aspect of Portland food that involves fresh, sustainable, and nourishing ingredients. Not to mention there are some excellent dry cocktails in this town!
And if that wasn’t enough, 2018 had more hard times up its sleeve for me. Shortly after my final radiation treatment, my mother died; I spent her final week with her. My father sustained a terrible life-threatening fall. And I got very sick right after Thanksgiving, and dealt with some kind of virulent virus for over a month. This year has been one of the most challenging, sorrowful, and frustrating of my life. As I see it, things can only go up in 2019.
I look forward to getting back to immersing myself in the Portland food world, watching the local restaurant scene change and grow, and trying more delicious dishes in town. Stay tuned!
Meg Cotner
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Oh Meg, I am so glad you kicked cancer. That’s so scary. And I’m sorry for the loss of your mother. Holding you in my thoughts, sending healthy vibes to you and your dad, and wishing you the best for 2019.
Thanks so much, Catherine! I wish only the best for you and yours in 2019.
Oh dear, what a year 2018 was for you! Ours was similarly bumpy, so I sincerely understand. You are not alone, Meg. I’m so glad to read that you are doing better and that things are returning to normal. Let us all hope for a smoother 2019.
Thank you, Renee! Sorry to hear your had a troublesome 2018, and I Hope 2019 brings you lots of good things and experiences.
I’m so sorry to hear that you had a battle with cancer! I’m so happy to hear that you are feeling better. Best wishes for a great 2019.
Thank you, Erin! I never thought I’d get breast cancer, and it was an enlightening yet surreal experience. All the best to you in 2019!