Hey, my name is Marlie Shearer.

Maureen (Moe) is my mom.

You are probably more familiar with local fishing legend Ralph, my dad. Or maybe my brother, Ken, a volunteer firefighter who is always showing up for others in our community. Maybe you know my mom’s twin sister, Marlene, who is known locally for the child care she’s given to so many families over the years.

My mom, Moe, spent many years working at the nursing home, where she was known for her exceptional care, kindness, and the dignity she gave to every patient she looked after.

Right now, we are navigating a sudden and devastating medical situation involving my mom, Moe. She has been diagnosed with Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma, localized to her brain, also known as primary CNS lymphoma, and is currently in a London hospital receiving urgent treatment, including high-dose methotrexate and immunotherapy.

At this time, she is unresponsive and closely monitored by her medical team.

My dad (Ralph) has stepped away from work to be by her side every single day as her full-time advocate. Our focus is entirely on her care, comfort, and giving her the best possible chance to respond to treatment.

This situation has placed our family under unexpected financial strain, as my parents have gone from a dual income household to no income while my dad is off work to care for my mom. This includes frequent travel to and from the hospital for my dad, my brother, and my aunt, as well as for me when I am able to make the 3.5 hour drive, often as a same-day round trip while balancing life as a single parent with a child at home. It also includes parking and meals at the hospital, daily living expenses for the household, and hotel stays when we are advised to remain close to the hospital during certain stages of treatment. We are fortunate to have support from family and friends nearby, but accommodations are still necessary at times. These are alongside other ongoing costs that come with long-term intensive care and treatment.

We are doing everything we can to stay strong for her, but we are reaching out for help so my dad can remain by her side without the added stress of work and bills during this critical time.

Any support, whether through a donation or by sharing this page, means more than we can express. We are deeply grateful for every act of kindness.

We are holding onto hope and taking things one step at a time, grateful not to be facing this alone.

If you are wanting to support but would prefer to donate directly, you are welcome to reach out to me for e-transfer information.