Sabbatical: to take a rest from work

You can call me cynical, but I think some of my friends and family may be taking advantage of this "Emmy has cancer" thing. Here's why...

Firstly, when I was in hospital having an "episode" a few months ago, my dad's partner handed her notice in at work with immediate effect. Apparently it was so that she could be around to look after my dad and me, but I have my doubts.

Then, my dad has really cut back on his writing work. Apparently he has his hands full running me around for hospital visits and generally keeping an eye on me.

Even my step-son has been trying to blag days off from nursery to "seep wick mummy" (ie, sleep with mummy). He's already learning how to be a slacker!

And then, J - well, he's pushed the playing the cancer card to a whole new level! He's taking a two-month sabbatical from work. Talk about milking it!

I hope you know I'm joking... I appreciate all of the sacrifices my family are making for me more than I could ever express. I get a bit uncomfortable talking about it as they've all done so much for me and I could never repay them. I'm humbled by it, to be honest.

J's two-month sabbatical started last week, and I already don't know what I'm going to do when it's over and he has to go back to work. He's had to agree to work right through Christmas to be allowed this time off - I hope he understands how much this means to me.

We're already trying to make the most of it. Yesterday, he and I found a baby singing and music group and signed up for it (with baby girl, of course). And now I'm off my treatment (for the time being) we're going to take Mini Me swimming as soon as I'm feeling up to it! Swimming was one of the things I was most looking forward to doing with my daughter, and I haven't been able to do it yet, so I can't wait!

Plus, my dad has booked a cottage on the Norfolk Coast so we're off there for a holiday. My baby girl's first holiday!

We have two months to make the most of. I know it's going to fly by, and I'm dreading December... but I'm quite excited about all our plans.

But... I don't want any of my other friends thinking they can use my cancer card to gain a free holiday - it's my cancer and I'm using it for all its worth, but that doesn't mean that y'all can!