Fighting Cancer for Connie
My mom’s story is a story of immense strength, courage, selflessness, and love.
After being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the summer of 2016, she had received a prognosis of one year. Of course, doctors didn’t know who they were dealing with - my mother wasn’t about to accept one year. She fought tirelessly for nearly two and a half years, never giving up. It breaks my heart to say that she passed away at only 53 years young on Monday, October 29th after enduring a journey I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. And somehow through all of the suffering, she still managed to crack jokes, smile, find joy, and care for the people around her. My mom truly was, and is, an angel. And those who were lucky enough to have known her, know what a special person she was. A gift.
Connie Denison truly devoted her life to others, especially to her family. She was the most selfless person I know, and she’ll continue to give to us forever through the great memories she’s blessed us with. My mum never asked for much, but while she was sick, we found an obituary she began to draft for herself. In it, she asked people to celebrate her life by donating to help support cancer patients in hopes that she could make a difference in the lives of those walking in her shoes. Even her dying wish was in thought of others.
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most fatal cancers. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, in 2017 an estimated 5,500 Canadians were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and 4,800 Canadians died of it. In Canada, on average, the 5-year survival rate is 8%. This is largely because R&D for early diagnosis and customized treatment lags. By the time a person is diagnosed, the cancer is likely to have progressed to a more advanced stage and it’s usually too late for surgical removal of the tumour.
All proceeds from this fund will go towards supporting patients in their fight against cancer (The Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation), and to support pancreatic cancer research.
Connie was the best mother a child could ask for. A true friend. A graceful daughter. A better half. Please help support such a beautiful soul and great cause.
