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Life in the Bleasby household
changed forever in November 2002 when my mum, Jennifer, was suddenly diagnosed
with Acute Myleogeneous Leukemia (AML). One day we had been happily raking
leaves in the garden, two days later she was admitted to Princess Margaret
Hospital for intensive chemotherapy. Despite not going into remission and
being given a "bleak" prognosis, she continued to make the most of every day and
showed incredible bravery and strength facing this complicated disease.
We had two wonderful summers in the garden enjoying the sunshine, and a
wonderful autumn. She was proving the doctors wrong and, although
operating at a slower pace, was still very much her old self.
She was a remarkable woman who
simply would not give up on life. Inspiring. We were lucky enough to
get away for a few days this past August (2004) and, as it turns out, this was
to be out last time together enjoying the outdoors, strolls down the beach,
dinners with friends and the freedom of life. The happiest and most treasured
memories I hold in my heart. Soon after our return to the city, she was
admitted to hospital. Sadly, mum died peacefully on Tuesday, October 13 in
the palliative care unit of Princes Margaret Hospital (PMH). She was
surrounded by love and friends and family thoroughout her final days, showing an
amazing amount of humour and acceptance and bravery. She was my best
friend and confidant and the most wonderful mother I could have dreamed for.
I miss her tremendously but her spirit will be with me forever.
Our family is forever thankful
for the superb care we received at PMH, in particular from Dr. Richard Wells who
is simply the most incredible Doctor we could have hoped for. The nursing
staff in the transfusion unit became special friends over the weekly visits and
took great care with my mum. And finally, the care and attention shown by
the palliative care team at PMH was phenomenal. We are also exceptionally
thankful that extensive research into Leukemia and other blood cancers is
on-going so that the medicines and treatments are the most up-to-date and as
effective as possible.
 A vital part of her on-going treatment was regular blood
and/or platelet transfusions. Until she was the one in desperate need of
blood, I just didn’t realise how critically low the blood bank levels tend to be
and yet how easy it is for people to donate. I urge everyone to please,
please give blood. (Find a blood donor clinic near
you). As they say, “it’s in you to give” and
it is the gift of life to others.
Please read the Toronto Star
Article about my mum and how her garden has helped her endure the
treatments to battle leukemia. |
