Life After Cancer: An Unforgettable Journey Through the Isle of Skye

To celebrate 10 years of living under the shadows of cancer, I found a renewed zest for life and an insatiable desire to embrace the world’s beauty in ways I never imagined before. My journey led me to the Isle of Skye in Scotland, a place renowned for its rugged landscapes and ethereal beauty. An eight-day sailing and hiking adventure awaited me—a trip that would challenge my fears and celebrate my newfound strength.

The adventure began aboard a charming sailboat, my home for the next eight days. The cabin was cozy, the room small with bunk beds that only one of us could stand at a time. Each morning, I awoke to the gentle rocking of the boat and the promise of new adventures. The sailboat glided through the cerulean waters, offering panoramic views of the dramatic cliffs and verdant hillsides that define the Isle of Skye. We learned how to hoist sails; rope pulling & tested our navigation skills at the helm with steering.

Hiking the isle was a test of endurance and courage. Some trails were daunting, with narrow paths skirting steep precipices and rocky terrains that demanded every ounce of my concentration and strength. Yet, each step was a victory, a testament to my journey from illness to resilience. The ship Provident has sailed the seas for almost a century under the ownership of our skipper, Steve, and our cook & mate, Morag. Together with the crew and our hiking guide Antje, they have created unforgettable memories on this journey. Each stunning view served as a poignant reminder of life's delicate nature and strength, mirroring my personal battle with cancer.

Sailing between the isles, I found solace in the rhythm of the waves and the boundless horizon. The camaraderie with fellow travelers, the shared stories, and the quiet moments of reflection under the starlit sky created an experience that was both humbling and empowering. Life after cancer is not just about survival; it’s about embracing the extraordinary, finding joy in the unexpected, and celebrating the strength that comes from overcoming life’s greatest challenges. The Isle of Skye, with its wild beauty and untamed spirit, became a symbol of my own journey—a testament to the power of resilience and the endless possibilities that life still holds.

I like to end with a quote from our skipper:

“There’s nothing better than getting a beautiful old boat charging through the waves with nothing but the wind to power us”— Steve

with gratitude

Cindy