Is it a 'Cause for Concern?'

The NSW coal mining industry has enjoyed a period of extraordinary growth over the past few years 

'A wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings, and learn how by his own thought to derive benefit from his illnesses.'
Hippocrates

Coal prices have risen on the back of increased demand from China. Higher prices have stimulated investment in the NSW coal industry. There have been a number of new mining developments, or major expansions, to existing mines. Several of these are in close proximity in the Hunter Valley. Is this then a cause for concern?

I do not believe that my breast cancer has anything to do with  the mining industry. I do believe that there are potential health risks associated with mining. I will go so far as to say though that there does appear to be a cancer 'cluster' right here in this area with its magnificent views. Looking across the Allyn Valley, at times, we see the haze from the mines. Our home is not in close proximity to any of the homes on the six adjoining properties. Being a rural area, we live on 67 hectares, or almost 200 acres for those not familiar with the metric system. Of the six adjoining properties, at least one person in each of five of them has, or has had, cancer. Last year we attended funeral services for two of them. Although Haydn has owned the land for 20 years, we have been residents for less than three years

Apart from information gleaned from local papers, I have done no research into potential health risks associated with mining. I did find it interesting that the couple that looked at the property last weekend stated emphatically that, although the husband works in the mines, he will not live anywhere near them. After their first inspection, they have said they can see themselves living here.

My relationship with Haydn is not an issue; fortunately the lines of communication have been opened. There has been a huge shift! At 64 years of age, he is prepared to sell acreage that he has lovingly tended for 20 years in order to give me the opportunity to return to the city. This would enable me to spend time with friends and seek treatment as necessary. Is it the right thing to do at this stage? The more interest in the farm the people show, the higher my stress levels. I have shed tears of frustration this past week knowing that Haydn was put in the same position many years ago when his first wife became ill. I do not believe it is right for him to go through it again!

A huge 'Thank You' for your response to my previous post and your compliments on our home and view.

Real Estate

True to his word, Haydn contacted two real estate agents and asked for appraisals. Both turned out to be female. Why am I telling you this? Maybe it had something to do with the outcomes. Maybe not. The interesting thing is that neither of them spent too much time inspecting the property, although there was a consensus that the views will sell the property.

On arrival, the first agent spent some time with Haydn while he explained the reason behind his decision to consider selling the farm. Perhaps it was our circumstances that put her in her 'comfort zone.' She spoke at length about her own father who is 59 and has, unfortunately, been given a very bad prognosis regarding his own cancer diagnosis. Family members are all very distressed about the pain and suffering that plagues him and also the abdominal bloating. It appears that his Medical Practitioner has done very little to relieve the symptoms. We were able to suggest the possibility of Ascites Fluid and to steer her back to the doctor in the hope he would provide suitable treatment.

I explained to agent 1 that I was being cared for by the Palliative Care team. I cannot imagine my life without them. Armed with an arsenal of cancer related information she departed, promising to make contact later in the week.

We sat over a pot of tea with agent 2 and discussed all sorts of things; not a lot of time being devoted to the property. She did say that she had visions of it being used as a B & B, or a place for healing. I agreed. It has always been my vision to have cabins being used by those seeking a peaceful environment, either during or after treatment. Knowing that is not to be, it would give me great joy to see it being used for such a purpose by a prospective buyer.

Humbled to learn from agent 2 that she found herself inspired by my story I replied that I did not fully understand what she meant and asked her to please explain. Her reply touched me deeply. She simply said 'I see you as a channel for grace.'

A phone call later in the week from agent 1. Her Dad has now been treated for his Ascites fluid (Yes! We guessed it!) and he has been referred to Palliative Care. She asked if we had made any decisions regarding the sale of the property and said that no matter what she would like to keep in touch.

Once again, I can only think that we have been blessed.