A little update

Life in our household is slowly returning to a sense of normalcy, or as close to it as possible. We've had some minor bumps along the way, but we're managing things now and looking forward to better times ahead. In the coming months, I'm hoping to return to part-time work, which has been a difficult decision.  

 

Our girls are doing well, with the two oldest finishing up their semesters at university and applying for summer jobs. They were lucky enough to find jobs they loved last year, so we're hopeful for them this year. Our youngest is enjoying her new school and has been keeping us entertained as usual. She recently finished up ringette and badminton for the season and is now trying tennis.

 

This year, I've had the opportunity to coach basketball and badminton, both of which have been rewarding experiences. Coaching basketball was especially fun, and we had a great team of girls. Coaching badminton was an adventure, as I hadn't played in 30 years! The girls worked hard and showed so much improvement. Coaching is truly fulfilling when you have a great group of athletes.

 

As always, my husband is the rock of our family. He's been working long hours, with no end in sight, but we're hoping to take some time off in the spring. Unfortunately, we had to cancel our Hawaii vacation again this year due to my health, but we're okay with staying closer to home for now. After all, it's not where you go, but who you go with that truly matters.  We did getaway on a lovely vacation to Florida shortly after Christmas and it was amazing. We will certainly cherish the many memories from our adventures.

 

Each day brings hope and love, and we're grateful for every moment. Remember to take time to enjoy the little things, cherish your loved ones, and live life to the fullest.

Our Precious Family on Vacation in Florida

 

 

 

Holidays are on their way

The Christmas season is ramping up and while the time leading up to it, is not my favourite, I absolutely love Christmas. This year is more difficult, when I think of the dear friends lost and the trials we’ve faced. I’m going to dig deep to embrace the season and make the most of what we have been blessed with. There is always something to be thankful for.

I've been enjoying not having chemo the last couple of months.  I've recently started my oral maintenance drug called Niraparib. It's a PARP inhibitor that is supposed to help keep the cancer at bay. We are hoping it does its job. We know my cancer is not curable but hopeful to manage it as long as possible.   The drug has a long list of side effects much like chemotherapy but less severe. My immune system will be weakened again which isn't fun, but we will be cautious. Over the last week, side effects have kicked in and I’m reminded about how much I dislike nausea and vomiting. We will weigh the pros and cons of this drug over the next couple of weeks.

We are looking forward to getting our girls home under one roof for Christmas and enjoying time with some family and friends.  Exams are just around the corner for our 2 oldest and they are doing well at university and we are so proud of them. Our youngest is growing up too quickly She’s enjoying her new school and doing very well. She’s loving ringette and has started basketball. She’s missed some school and sports due to sickness, so we are hoping she’s passed most of that.

My husband is busy working and juggling a lot of extra, but as always manages smoothly. He’s taking a good break over the holidays with us. We are all happy about that. I’m beginning to figure out what is next for me. Once I’m healed and managing well with this new treatment, I will be heading back to some form of work. Not sure where or when this will happen, but hopeful something will work out.  Another adventure awaits. For now, we will enjoy the season and be forever grateful for our life we have.

To all who are struggling through this season, I send my sincere love to you. I hope we can all find our way to embrace the happy moments and be thankful for them.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and happy holidays!

2021