English Community

Hello all,

Tomorrow (April 7th), is National Caregiver Day in Canada. It is celebrated annually to honour the millions of unpaid family members and friends, as well as professional workers, who provide essential care for those with illnesses, disabilities, or aging-related needs.

In recognition, I'd like to celebrate the people in our lives that have shown up for each of us, in meaningful and sometimes unexpected ways. I often think of these folks as the "unsung hero's" and as we know, not all hero's wear capes. In what ways have people in your life shown up in support and care of you? I'd love to hear your stories.  

#Supportandencouragement

Hello Teal Sisters,

I thought I'd start this thread with recognition of my 'caregivers'. First and foremost is my husband. Without him, I would not have been able to make it more than two steps through this journey. He was my nurse, my cook, my chauffeur, my advocate, and my voice of reason when I felt hopeless. He now knows how to make an excellent grilled cheese sandwich and a great cup of tea! 😊

I also must recognize one of my girlfriends and my soon to be daughter-in-law who took the time to show up for each of my chemo sessions, to keep me company, keep me grounded, get me water/ice/food and keep my spirits up. They also provided much needed laughter when I needed it most.

I also have a dear friend who I've known since grade 3. He and his wife took the time to travel over 2 hours, every month, to come visit me when I was between chemo infusions. They brought me home baked goods, sat and chat with me and my hubby, made me laugh, and helped me feel a sense of normalcy.

I must also recognize my in-laws. During my surgery and recovery, during the days of my chemo infusions and a few days after and generally whenever we needed their help they were there. Importantly they cared for our dog on days that neither my husband nor I could. Also I thank my sister-in-law who drove me to a few CT appointments (some very late at night), constantly checked in on me and would bring me the best ginger candies to help me manage nausea. The best way to describe her support is that she was just, "there".

I had many people sending me wishes of hope and strength throughout my journey and still through to today. The folks above however showed up in ways I can never repay. As the saying goes..."it takes a village..."

#Supportandencouragement

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@lbarr72 ❤️

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@Alwayslearning, I am thankful for my husband who took me to almost all my appts and every chemo sessions. Managed things at home while I was in the hospital and continued to work everyday.  To my son, who is so dependant on me for everything, he stepped up and tried his best to help vacuum and mop the floors, and get me things that I needed when we were home alone and I wasn't at my best. I'm also grateful for my coworkers that stepped up and took me to appts when my husband couldn't, made sure we had meals available for when I wasn't up to cooking. My friends that called and texted to check in on me.  My one special coworker who lost her mom to hgsoc 2 years ago ( only had a year from diagnosis) who checks on me everyday, makes me stay active, invited me into her family, took me to appts and would drive my son to his appts when I was at mine.

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@Meinvan 🩵

I must first recognize my partner who was right beside me from the moment of diagnosis to the end of treatment. He went to every doctor's visit, every blood test, every scan, every exam, every infusion and surgery. He took notes and looked over all the lab results. He was very stoic and also encouraging when I was down. He provided me with delicious food and took care of all my needs. He got me through the most difficult time of my life and I am very grateful for him.

 I must also mention two girlfriends who visited me regularly and lifted my spirits. My friend Isabel came to all my chemo infusions, and eased my worries.  Renea made a dance video of women in my Zumba class who dedicated a song to me. There were also others who checked in with me regularly: all those interactions made a huge difference to my outlook and recovery.

LeslieA