Over the last 18 months, I've learned to adapt to my new way of life and have come to realise that I cannot let having a malignant melanoma define or ruin my life. 

I began the healing process by going on a summer holiday this year with my family, and our dog, Otto, to Haarlem in the Netherlands. It was warm, but not so hot that I had to hide from the sun. I spent my time walked and cycled through this beautiful country, which gave me a sense of freedom and reminded me how important it is to do what truly makes me happy.

Lovely Haarlem

I visited Montenegro in May and October, choosing the cooler months and simply avoiding the midday sun. In fact, I discovered that these are some of the best times of year to go to Montenegro, it's much less touristy, everything looks even more beautiful, and found out that these are also the favourite months for many local people as well.

While in Montenegro, I had several meetings with builders and am back on track to start the project next year.

After trying to turn myself into someone who enjoys being completely out of the sun, I began to feel a bit trapped, like I could no longer be my true self.

Inviting Sveti Stefan Beach

I started to think I should never go to Montenegro again, unless it wasn't summer. Yet the whole reason I had bought these properties was because I loved the sun, the warmth, and the sense of freedom it gives me.

I was really, terribly confused by my new situation.