Michellie celebrated four full days of school and arriving before the bell. She collapsed on the couch on Friday night - exhausted. She really tried her best and pushed to get assignments done. What a milestone. Thursday Michellie made cheesecake in Foods class, and brought it home for my birthday cake. Then she made a dinner as her foods assignment. She made Ginger Chicken on the Barbeque, Vegetable Quisotto, and Tapioca for Dessert. We discovered that if you don't wash the Quinoa before cooking it, there is a hard protein shell that can cause some people to vomit profusely - that would be David. Poor Dad spent the evening next to the washroom until I did an allergy tap to reverse the reaction. Not everyone reacts, so the rest of us were fine.
Michellie, MacKenzie, Christina and David R. went to Chimney Corner for the evening and enjoyed the sunset and some hiking. Michellie spent the evening taking artsy photos. She has a really good idea for light and content. She has posted her pics on facebook if you want to have a look.
Friday was my birthday, and Michellie was the one with the card ready and signed. She is so organized. The family made dinner for me, and we enjoyed some lobster - we being Christina and I since no one else is a lobster fan. Kenzie barbecued this time, and it was marinated pork chops. Kenzie hung my hammock in the back yard, and Michellie took pics of me enjoying the relaxation. Then, she spent the rest of the evening on the couch. It was too hot, her body ached all over, and she could not raise her arms to do anything. So, she rested while we headed to the beach for a few hours. We rented the Beiber movie when we got home, and Michellie and I cuddled on the couch to watch. I saw most of it through eyelids, most movies are that way. Michellie just giggled and continued to enjoy.
Michellie headed to Sam's for the weekend. They were in charge of painting the chicken coop. I can hardly wait for the stories. She will be meeting me in Sydney tonight to come home. I hope she got some rest and was able to get her energy back.
On Friday we were sent our itinerary for Michellie's Children's Wish. We are booked to fly to Hawaii in December for an exclusive week with Spirit of the Dolphin Retreat in Hawaii. We are very excited. It is hard to believe it is really going to happen, and that Michellie will be able to enjoy her absolute favorite passion in Hawaii. Her energy should be strong by then, and her body will be used to the sun again. With less amounts of chemo in her she should be able to enjoy the outdoors a little more than at the moment with the intense sun.
So, now I head to Sydney to volunteer for Children's Wish. They are hosting a Princess Tea Party and I get to show little preschoolers how to be a princess. I am excited to enjoy their company for a few hours. It has been a long time since I had so many preschoolers in one space at one time. Michellie did not want to be my assistant. That would be too much like the birthday parties she used to assist with. Not her cup of tea!
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Thursday, May 26th
Today Michellie's great, great grandfather from Hungary, Joseph Matiz, would have been 114 years old. He was an incredible force of energy that beat many odds and survived being imprisoned in Russia during the second world war and rode under a train for 3 days to escape back to his beloved. He worked the mines in Lethbridge when he first came to Canada, and was determined to see the light of day everyday. Eventually he saved enough money to buy an orchard in Oliver to begin a better life. Michellie has strong genes from this lineage, as well as others that make up her cell structure. It is nice to honor his memory today.
Yesterday was Oprah's last show, and she dedicated the last hour to her viewers to guide them to do more to be their authentic selves, to pursue the best that they could be, and to honor themselves for their achievements and successes. In the morning as I was waiting for Michellie to come down for breakfast I started to think about when people ask "Where were you when Oprah finished her show?". I can remember where I was when Elvis died, I can remember where I was when the twin towers went down, and the thousands of innocent people parished. I can remember where I was when Princess Diana married Prince Charles, and now I know where we were last month when Prince William married Princess Kate. Michellie can remember this last one, as she was asleep in bed. So, where would she be for Oprah - in our living room. That is not exciting enough for her final message. So, I spent the morning creating a tapas menu (thanks Sharon - we used your recipes - all Gluten free), and I picked up champagne. I invited the Rankin family over, and we had a big party. Both Michellie and MacKenzie were there to hear her final message, and hopefully, to reflect on it throughout their choices in life. So, we were in our living room, but we were having a big party together and it was great.
We have been joking this week about all the crazy, yet wonderful things, that I do as a mother - that other mothers might not do. I like fruit salad for my birthday, not cake; I don't drink coffee or chew gum; I like to go on adventures; everything is a celebration; I love Tai Chi and sunsets on the beach; and, I make my own parties and enjoy them when I know the time is right. As we were watching Oprah, I was enjoying my children and reflecting on these ideas. I hope that Michellie and MacKenzie remember to honor their passions the same way. I hope that they will remember to celebrate when they know the time is right. I hope that they remember to reflect and honor each day for its beauty. (I hope that they learn how to do all the dishes and put away the food on the counter too - oh, that must just come with age).
Michellie loves to laugh when I cry. She enjoys getting the Kleenex box to pass to me for my tears, and she giggles as "my eyes leak". It used to bother me that she would giggle, but I know her turn is coming, and soon her eyes will "leak" too. I am glad that she shares these moments with me, and that she can understand the things I love, and how I feel about others and opportunities. I love a pot of tea on the coffee table to indulge in for an evening of great show watching. We have that in common. She enjoys the fruity teas (but green tea) and "Evening Jazz" is a favorite.
As the season for shows is winding up, I was reflecting on what that means to this journey. We had a complete schedule figured out for our hospital stays. These shows were our anchor of laughter and sharing on the really hard days of chemo. Some of the shows will be returning in the fall, and some will not. The laughter of The Middle and Modern Family were a huge part of letting go on Wednesday nights. Grey's Anatomy and the Big Bang Theory were our anchors for Thursday night. Michellie has watched every ER she could get her hands on, and all the episodes of Heartland. She loves getting into the characters and how people react. (Hence the watching of my tears over different shows). Off the Map won't be returning in the fall, Michellie was enjoying the new medical knowledge from this and the characters in the tropics. And, Oprah won't be the 3 o'clock anchor for the afternoon lulls, or the after school time slot. Perhaps the laughter from Ellen will take its place. Ellen really provided us with some great laughter on several occasions. We even saved one episode because we laughed so hard we both cried. As the shows finish for the season, it is our sign to get up and get moving more. Get outside and enjoy this beautiful countryside. It is her time to let go of just healing and to really begin living again.
Michellie is thinking about working, and hopes to have enough energy to get a summer job. She would really like to be building her bank account, and be busy across the summer. It will be interesting to see what comes her way, or what she pursues. They made resumes in Foods class this week, and she said hers was a small one, but that she would be tweaking it for dropping off. Way to go Michellie. We look forward to seeing the energy build and the stamina to take on a summer job.
Michellie will be using the healing bracelets as her final assignment for art class. We are very excited to put the labyrinth together and do some photography work. Thank you to all those people who have already sent their bracelet in, and the stories that have accompanied them.
It is now 8 am and Michellie will be up to get to school before the bell - Yeah! The diggers are in the front yard creating our new septic field, the workers on on the front of the house shoring up the footings so they can create our new deck. There are beeps and bangs and screeches everwhere. Missy and Hunter are busy trying to keep on top of it all. Hunter hides and Missy cries to get outside to check it all out. Their names should be reversed!
Yesterday was Oprah's last show, and she dedicated the last hour to her viewers to guide them to do more to be their authentic selves, to pursue the best that they could be, and to honor themselves for their achievements and successes. In the morning as I was waiting for Michellie to come down for breakfast I started to think about when people ask "Where were you when Oprah finished her show?". I can remember where I was when Elvis died, I can remember where I was when the twin towers went down, and the thousands of innocent people parished. I can remember where I was when Princess Diana married Prince Charles, and now I know where we were last month when Prince William married Princess Kate. Michellie can remember this last one, as she was asleep in bed. So, where would she be for Oprah - in our living room. That is not exciting enough for her final message. So, I spent the morning creating a tapas menu (thanks Sharon - we used your recipes - all Gluten free), and I picked up champagne. I invited the Rankin family over, and we had a big party. Both Michellie and MacKenzie were there to hear her final message, and hopefully, to reflect on it throughout their choices in life. So, we were in our living room, but we were having a big party together and it was great.
We have been joking this week about all the crazy, yet wonderful things, that I do as a mother - that other mothers might not do. I like fruit salad for my birthday, not cake; I don't drink coffee or chew gum; I like to go on adventures; everything is a celebration; I love Tai Chi and sunsets on the beach; and, I make my own parties and enjoy them when I know the time is right. As we were watching Oprah, I was enjoying my children and reflecting on these ideas. I hope that Michellie and MacKenzie remember to honor their passions the same way. I hope that they will remember to celebrate when they know the time is right. I hope that they remember to reflect and honor each day for its beauty. (I hope that they learn how to do all the dishes and put away the food on the counter too - oh, that must just come with age).
Michellie loves to laugh when I cry. She enjoys getting the Kleenex box to pass to me for my tears, and she giggles as "my eyes leak". It used to bother me that she would giggle, but I know her turn is coming, and soon her eyes will "leak" too. I am glad that she shares these moments with me, and that she can understand the things I love, and how I feel about others and opportunities. I love a pot of tea on the coffee table to indulge in for an evening of great show watching. We have that in common. She enjoys the fruity teas (but green tea) and "Evening Jazz" is a favorite.
As the season for shows is winding up, I was reflecting on what that means to this journey. We had a complete schedule figured out for our hospital stays. These shows were our anchor of laughter and sharing on the really hard days of chemo. Some of the shows will be returning in the fall, and some will not. The laughter of The Middle and Modern Family were a huge part of letting go on Wednesday nights. Grey's Anatomy and the Big Bang Theory were our anchors for Thursday night. Michellie has watched every ER she could get her hands on, and all the episodes of Heartland. She loves getting into the characters and how people react. (Hence the watching of my tears over different shows). Off the Map won't be returning in the fall, Michellie was enjoying the new medical knowledge from this and the characters in the tropics. And, Oprah won't be the 3 o'clock anchor for the afternoon lulls, or the after school time slot. Perhaps the laughter from Ellen will take its place. Ellen really provided us with some great laughter on several occasions. We even saved one episode because we laughed so hard we both cried. As the shows finish for the season, it is our sign to get up and get moving more. Get outside and enjoy this beautiful countryside. It is her time to let go of just healing and to really begin living again.
Michellie is thinking about working, and hopes to have enough energy to get a summer job. She would really like to be building her bank account, and be busy across the summer. It will be interesting to see what comes her way, or what she pursues. They made resumes in Foods class this week, and she said hers was a small one, but that she would be tweaking it for dropping off. Way to go Michellie. We look forward to seeing the energy build and the stamina to take on a summer job.
Michellie will be using the healing bracelets as her final assignment for art class. We are very excited to put the labyrinth together and do some photography work. Thank you to all those people who have already sent their bracelet in, and the stories that have accompanied them.
It is now 8 am and Michellie will be up to get to school before the bell - Yeah! The diggers are in the front yard creating our new septic field, the workers on on the front of the house shoring up the footings so they can create our new deck. There are beeps and bangs and screeches everwhere. Missy and Hunter are busy trying to keep on top of it all. Hunter hides and Missy cries to get outside to check it all out. Their names should be reversed!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Tuesday, May 24th
What a whirlwind with Adam here. We had a great week sharing Cape Breton with a Cochranite. Adam assisted us with some of the tear down at the back of the house, and enjoyed several trips to the beach too. Michellie enjoyed having more kids in the house, as there seemed to be a revolving door with ours and the Rankins. Saturday night we went to West Mabou for the dance, and we all had a great time. It was the first time that Michellie felt well enough to dance a set, and she did it. A couple we have seen at the dances for many years came over for a chat. They had lost their granddaughter last year to cancer at the age of 11, and they were so happy to see Michellie celebrating and having fun. David and I were so grateful to have a dance with our kids and to celebrate together as a family. As we approach Michellie's celebration, we are really feeling how lucky we have been and so thankful that our story is a success story. We are definitely hugging our kids a little closer this week.
Monday was a trip to Port Hawksbury. Michellie's cell phone broke, and that is like cutting her right hand off, so we had to go for repairs. Kenzie came too, and the three of us made it a day - a birthday day really. We pretended we were going on an adventure like I used to tell them when they were little. We joked and wandered and looked for a Father's Day gift. On the trip home we tried to play "In my Suitcase I will pack" like we did when Kenzie and I drove to Canmore when I had a studio there and he was 4 years old. I have to say, his memory is not so good with the lack of sleep and extra partying, he gave up before the finish of the third round. Michellie and I won!
This week we are celebrating Oprah! I cannot believe that I have been teaching dance 4 years longer than Oprah's show. The kids grew up with being quiet at 3 o'clock so I could watch my show. Michellie has really been enjoying the adventures this year, and loving all the learning about people and history and such that comes with watching. Michellie and I sat last night and watched the beginning of the special 2 day show. She brought me kleenex and tea, and we both laughed and cried through the show. For those of you following as well, we all have grown and become different people as a result of her influences in the world. It is really incredible what one woman and a dream can do. Michellie and I have the tv reserved for today and tomorrow to share this together. Even Kenzie has joined us for the last few episodes.
So, with the words of Oprah and the Good Witch from the Wizard of Oz - "We have the power within", what are you going to do with your power? What dream are you pursuing? What are you challenging yourself to do for you? What are you doing to make a difference in your life and the lives of others? We have a great opportunity before us. And, as we have learned, each day is precious and with purpose. We need to keep ourselves from wasting time and our purpose. If you have not stepped forward to give yourself the very best, then perhaps Ghandi's words will be a good reflection: "Be the Change you want to see in the world". Have a fabulous week everyone.
Monday was a trip to Port Hawksbury. Michellie's cell phone broke, and that is like cutting her right hand off, so we had to go for repairs. Kenzie came too, and the three of us made it a day - a birthday day really. We pretended we were going on an adventure like I used to tell them when they were little. We joked and wandered and looked for a Father's Day gift. On the trip home we tried to play "In my Suitcase I will pack" like we did when Kenzie and I drove to Canmore when I had a studio there and he was 4 years old. I have to say, his memory is not so good with the lack of sleep and extra partying, he gave up before the finish of the third round. Michellie and I won!
This week we are celebrating Oprah! I cannot believe that I have been teaching dance 4 years longer than Oprah's show. The kids grew up with being quiet at 3 o'clock so I could watch my show. Michellie has really been enjoying the adventures this year, and loving all the learning about people and history and such that comes with watching. Michellie and I sat last night and watched the beginning of the special 2 day show. She brought me kleenex and tea, and we both laughed and cried through the show. For those of you following as well, we all have grown and become different people as a result of her influences in the world. It is really incredible what one woman and a dream can do. Michellie and I have the tv reserved for today and tomorrow to share this together. Even Kenzie has joined us for the last few episodes.
So, with the words of Oprah and the Good Witch from the Wizard of Oz - "We have the power within", what are you going to do with your power? What dream are you pursuing? What are you challenging yourself to do for you? What are you doing to make a difference in your life and the lives of others? We have a great opportunity before us. And, as we have learned, each day is precious and with purpose. We need to keep ourselves from wasting time and our purpose. If you have not stepped forward to give yourself the very best, then perhaps Ghandi's words will be a good reflection: "Be the Change you want to see in the world". Have a fabulous week everyone.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Thursday, May 19th
The final total from the Fundraising has hit $1100. Wow! We will be sending a cheque off to the IWK at the beginning of next week. Fantastic!!!
Physio was on Tuesday, and Michellie had some significant gains, and some more work to do too. She is definitely stronger in her core and legs, but she has some work to do on her adductors and relaxing her pecs. There is a twist in the knees that is causing her some pain with walking as a result of muscles and tendons being all mixed up in messages. She has finally agreed to try Tai Chi class on Monday to see if this will help :) Her pecs are still extremely tight, and they are pulling her shoulder blades forward and keeping her from maintaining strong, straight posture. So, we will continue to work on this as well. There should be only one more physio appointment, and that is excellent!
Michellie has made it to school for first class every day this week, and she is starting to get back into the classroom, rather than just working in the resource room. Math is a bit of a challenge, so we have enlisted the assistance of a friend of ours to tutor her. Margie tells us that Michellie is way to hard on herself, and that she is quick to get the math concepts, and a very hard worker. So, now if we can just get her confidence up, Math could become a breeze! Michellie is determined not to repeat Math 10 for a whole year again, so that should fuel the fire to get the work done.
MacKenzie was in Halifax yesterday picking up Adam (one of his best buds), and Adam is here for the week. There was some good bantering going on last night, and we all headed to the beach. West Mabou has a huge sandbar this year, and this will make for some great Tai Chi days, as well as some shallow waters for beach days. The leaves are almost out, and the trees should be their light green beauty by the end of the weekend. The Daffodils are continuing to bloom everywhere. It is so nice to see the bright yellow lining driveways.
The hospital has finally determined that they will be able to take out Michellie's Port O Cath on Thursday, June 16. To celebrate this we now have our plans forming for the healing bracelet send off. I will post the details on the main page of the blog for everyone. It is hard to believe we have actually reached the point where we can take the bracelets off and truly celebrate Michellie's victory! YA!!!
Physio was on Tuesday, and Michellie had some significant gains, and some more work to do too. She is definitely stronger in her core and legs, but she has some work to do on her adductors and relaxing her pecs. There is a twist in the knees that is causing her some pain with walking as a result of muscles and tendons being all mixed up in messages. She has finally agreed to try Tai Chi class on Monday to see if this will help :) Her pecs are still extremely tight, and they are pulling her shoulder blades forward and keeping her from maintaining strong, straight posture. So, we will continue to work on this as well. There should be only one more physio appointment, and that is excellent!
Michellie has made it to school for first class every day this week, and she is starting to get back into the classroom, rather than just working in the resource room. Math is a bit of a challenge, so we have enlisted the assistance of a friend of ours to tutor her. Margie tells us that Michellie is way to hard on herself, and that she is quick to get the math concepts, and a very hard worker. So, now if we can just get her confidence up, Math could become a breeze! Michellie is determined not to repeat Math 10 for a whole year again, so that should fuel the fire to get the work done.
MacKenzie was in Halifax yesterday picking up Adam (one of his best buds), and Adam is here for the week. There was some good bantering going on last night, and we all headed to the beach. West Mabou has a huge sandbar this year, and this will make for some great Tai Chi days, as well as some shallow waters for beach days. The leaves are almost out, and the trees should be their light green beauty by the end of the weekend. The Daffodils are continuing to bloom everywhere. It is so nice to see the bright yellow lining driveways.
The hospital has finally determined that they will be able to take out Michellie's Port O Cath on Thursday, June 16. To celebrate this we now have our plans forming for the healing bracelet send off. I will post the details on the main page of the blog for everyone. It is hard to believe we have actually reached the point where we can take the bracelets off and truly celebrate Michellie's victory! YA!!!
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Sunday, May 15th
Blog 101! The fundraiser last night was fabulous! We burst the seams of the Hillsborough Hall, and there were many familiar faces from around here that came out to support Michellie - Thank you. The final total with some donations that were sent to us directly totalled just short of $1000. The musicians played until almost midnight. I am attaching a few photos to tell more than words. Thank you to everyone that came out to play, and for all the well wishes and smiles around the hall. Michellie was really overwhelmed and honored.
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| At the Hall |
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| Pius MacIsaac and Cliffy Carter |
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| Michellie and Sam |
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| David Rankin singing Johnny Cash "Folsom Prison Blues" |
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| Thank you's |
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| Even Split winner and Door Prizes |
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Saturday, May 14th - Blog 100!!!!
Wow! 100! Who would have thought. Michellie finished the week with almost 2 full days of school. Thursday she started into her new projects with a little frustration at the amount of work ahead, but we slowly worked through details and found a way to break everything into chunks. Friday she woke early to get a few art drawings finished so she could go to see Sam for the weekend. Amazing what a little incentive will do! She picked her courses for fall, and was told she may want to look at repeating Math 10 which is a full year course. In the fall Michellie would not look at a tutor and not do any extra studying. Now, with the threat of a repeat, she is eager to dive in and get going on that Math. So, with about 6 weeks to the end, she has a big project ahead of her to accomplish this. We have hired a tutor and we will get started this week.
Friday evening we headed to Sydney to watch a dance competition. Michellie sat down. Looked at the Contemporary Solos. Smiled. Looked my way. And, with the biggest grin on her face, said: "I do not miss this at all." We had a good chuckle. One of the things she noticed while on her trip was that she could be ready in 2 minutes from wake up to dress to out the door. She is not interested in makeup, fashion, hairstyles (yet), or a lot of primping. Getting ready to perform cured her of caring for mascara, fake eyelashes, blush and more. Once Sam arrived and sat down, and looked at the stage with a grimace, they quickly determined they needed to head back to his house! I guess Sam won't be converted either. Kenzie and I stayed to enjoy the rest of the evening.
In a few hours we have the fundraiser for the IWK put on by the musicians of the jam night at the Hillsborough hall. We have had phone calls, emails and stops in town from so many wonderful people with caring words, congratulations, and "I'll see you at the hall." Thank you to everyone for all of your incredible support, and your continued caring as Michellie recovers from her treatments. The musicians and residents of the community wanted to help us out by organizing this fundraiser, and we have seen so many people with much harder challenges to face than ours, so we have asked that the fundraising go back to the IWK in support of those people without such a strong network of people to rely on. For those that will miss the evening, we thank you for keeping us in your hearts tonight, and for those that overflow the hall, thank you for your passion to help us and others. We can not think of a more wonderful way for the community to welcome us into their arms than with a celebration of music!
Stay tuned for an update tomorrow on all the fun!
We are waiting for a confirmation about her Port removal surgery for June, and then we will have our big bracelet send off! As well, we are volunteering for the Children's Wish fundraiser in Sydney on Sunday, May 29th. If anyone is interested in details, just let me know.
Friday evening we headed to Sydney to watch a dance competition. Michellie sat down. Looked at the Contemporary Solos. Smiled. Looked my way. And, with the biggest grin on her face, said: "I do not miss this at all." We had a good chuckle. One of the things she noticed while on her trip was that she could be ready in 2 minutes from wake up to dress to out the door. She is not interested in makeup, fashion, hairstyles (yet), or a lot of primping. Getting ready to perform cured her of caring for mascara, fake eyelashes, blush and more. Once Sam arrived and sat down, and looked at the stage with a grimace, they quickly determined they needed to head back to his house! I guess Sam won't be converted either. Kenzie and I stayed to enjoy the rest of the evening.
In a few hours we have the fundraiser for the IWK put on by the musicians of the jam night at the Hillsborough hall. We have had phone calls, emails and stops in town from so many wonderful people with caring words, congratulations, and "I'll see you at the hall." Thank you to everyone for all of your incredible support, and your continued caring as Michellie recovers from her treatments. The musicians and residents of the community wanted to help us out by organizing this fundraiser, and we have seen so many people with much harder challenges to face than ours, so we have asked that the fundraising go back to the IWK in support of those people without such a strong network of people to rely on. For those that will miss the evening, we thank you for keeping us in your hearts tonight, and for those that overflow the hall, thank you for your passion to help us and others. We can not think of a more wonderful way for the community to welcome us into their arms than with a celebration of music!
Stay tuned for an update tomorrow on all the fun!
We are waiting for a confirmation about her Port removal surgery for June, and then we will have our big bracelet send off! As well, we are volunteering for the Children's Wish fundraiser in Sydney on Sunday, May 29th. If anyone is interested in details, just let me know.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Wednesday, May 11th
Monday was a full rest day, and Michellie made it to school yesterday after first period, and stayed for the rest of the day! It was a real milestone. She was tired when she got home, but happy to have caught up with people and got her next set of assignments. Today was a trip to Antigonish for her Pentamadine treatment and to have her Port accessed to make sure it was clear. We only have to do these two things one more time next month, and then the Port can come out!
The photos from the trip are now available on Picasa from Sunshine Kids. You can find them at https://picasaweb.google.com/thesunshinekids/2011WashingtonDCAdventure#
I am also including a few I downloaded so you can have a look. Michellie's photos are now on her laptop and her facebook page if you have access, but we will try to get some of them up too. Many of her photos were like ones her dad would take - architecture and plants. Enjoy the few we have now!
The photos from the trip are now available on Picasa from Sunshine Kids. You can find them at https://picasaweb.google.com/thesunshinekids/2011WashingtonDCAdventure#
I am also including a few I downloaded so you can have a look. Michellie's photos are now on her laptop and her facebook page if you have access, but we will try to get some of them up too. Many of her photos were like ones her dad would take - architecture and plants. Enjoy the few we have now!
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| At the Air and Space Museum |
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| The Canadian's with "Abe" |
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| Michellie at DEA presenting a Sunshine Kids pin to one of the officials. |
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| It looks a lot easier than it is... |
Monday, May 9, 2011
Monday, May 9th
Firstly, belated Happy Mother's Day everyone! It was a great day to take a wee drive to Halifax to get Michellie, a wee drive back, and then another wee drive to Island Sunset for a wonderful meal overlooking the ocean. It seems weird having not communicated with everyone in a week, and really, we are not sure where the week went. All of us were very busy training, working, clearing, gardening etc.
Michellie's trip was an incredible success! The four kids and Esther came through customs with big bags under their eyes, and smiles from ear to ear. They had a wonderful time. Michellie talked our ear off for several hours with all of the tales and people and places and details. We have not been able to download the photos yet, but will get some posted. And, we do not have the whole week sorted out, but I will write a bit about the highlights of her week.
Monday was at the Smithsonian, which is huge and overwhelming. The afternoon was spent at a bowling party. They did a day at the War Memorials, and Michellie loved going to the top of the Washington Monument at 550 feet. She said the elevator ride down was interesting with different rock formations exhibited all the way down. The view from the top was spectacular. She could not believe the silence that holds at the Vietnam War Memorial. She said that was a weird feeling to have sound just die. And, she enjoyed the size of Abraham Lincoln's statue. At the White House it was a quick tour of several rooms, but the President got into a helicopter in the field in front of them, and one of the kids was at the elevator with Mr. Obama's dog and got to pet it. At DEA, the crime investigation training site, they all got to shoot the various styles of guns. Michellie shot 4 different guns - the smaller ones - and was surprised by the amount of kickback that they have. Apparently, she had a big grin on her face for this experience. They also attended the Air and Space museum (both Dad and Grandpa were extremely jealous), and enjoyed the Enterprise Shuttle on display there. At the Six Flags amusement park she did a couple of rides - no rollercoasters as they are not her favorite. Everywhere they went they were treated like royalty. The organizers for the Sunshine Kids event were very fun and entertaining. There were 24 kids from across North America, and they were the only 4 from Canada. Michellie was able to educate the other kids about what Nova Scotia is, and where it is, and they had some fun with accents with all the kids coming from different regions. Michellie could represent the West and the East of Canada with accent fun!
There was a huge table set up at the hotel with all kinds of candy treats, and they were taken to several neat restaurants. Michellie got into a rhythm of what she could eat, and balanced her time with when wheat was an only choice. She is refusing to eat any more salads this week, so I will have to be creative - it seems she ate a lot of those. She is a little slow and tired today, but she is so glad she went on the trip. We are so thankful to Prudential Real Estate, and to the Sunshine Kids organization for creating this opportunity for the kids. Michellie was able to find her independence and to experience her own fun. She loved sharing with the other kids, and was able to fit into the group as everyone had different stories, issues, limitations, hair length etc.
Michellie did get to swim at the pool, and the chlorine shrivelled up all the dry skin on her feet and legs. Her rash is now a faint memory, and the last of the healing under the skin is almost complete. She is very happy to have this side effect gone. She has a few zits from all the sugar treats all week, but she says she is happy to not eat any more sugar for a while. Her clear skin should return quickly in that case. Her legs got a real workout walking, and there were no wheel chairs for her to rest in, so she had to keep going. After a few days rest I am sure she will be walking tall and strong again.
Michellie is resting at home today and then she will be off to school tomorrow. Her "big sister" Brittany is home for a visit, and they have not seen each other in over a year, so this afternoon will be a chance to catch up. They can have tea and chat - definitely more food for the soul.
Michellie spent a little money on herself - gifts from Sunshine Kids - she has some new t-shirts and a sweatshirt with Washington on it. She has an I Heart DC that has signatures all over it. (I am glad we used to do that with all of our dance shirts, as Michellie instigated this with the group on the last day). Great memories for sure.
Michellie also has a scrapbook they made together. She did a great job with this. There is a video of all their antics coming (we are told that only she will be able to see it - I am not sure what that means?!**) and the Sunshine Kids will post photos on their site as well. We will let you know when that happens.
So, we have a trip to Antigonish on Wednesday for her Pentamadene treatment (only one more after that), and we should be hearing from the hospital about our dates for the June follow up and Port removal. This weekend the Hillsborough Hall is hosting their weekly Jam night, with an honor to Michellie and a fundraiser for the IWK. That will be Saturday night. We are just in the process of planning the healing bracelet celebration, and we will post the details to this shortly as well.
So, off to make some lunch for us all - no salad for Michellie. Looking forward to posting pictures for you all. Thank you for all the well wishes, and for everyone's emails to keep up with Michellie this week. It is so great to write about good things and celebrations!
Michellie's trip was an incredible success! The four kids and Esther came through customs with big bags under their eyes, and smiles from ear to ear. They had a wonderful time. Michellie talked our ear off for several hours with all of the tales and people and places and details. We have not been able to download the photos yet, but will get some posted. And, we do not have the whole week sorted out, but I will write a bit about the highlights of her week.
Monday was at the Smithsonian, which is huge and overwhelming. The afternoon was spent at a bowling party. They did a day at the War Memorials, and Michellie loved going to the top of the Washington Monument at 550 feet. She said the elevator ride down was interesting with different rock formations exhibited all the way down. The view from the top was spectacular. She could not believe the silence that holds at the Vietnam War Memorial. She said that was a weird feeling to have sound just die. And, she enjoyed the size of Abraham Lincoln's statue. At the White House it was a quick tour of several rooms, but the President got into a helicopter in the field in front of them, and one of the kids was at the elevator with Mr. Obama's dog and got to pet it. At DEA, the crime investigation training site, they all got to shoot the various styles of guns. Michellie shot 4 different guns - the smaller ones - and was surprised by the amount of kickback that they have. Apparently, she had a big grin on her face for this experience. They also attended the Air and Space museum (both Dad and Grandpa were extremely jealous), and enjoyed the Enterprise Shuttle on display there. At the Six Flags amusement park she did a couple of rides - no rollercoasters as they are not her favorite. Everywhere they went they were treated like royalty. The organizers for the Sunshine Kids event were very fun and entertaining. There were 24 kids from across North America, and they were the only 4 from Canada. Michellie was able to educate the other kids about what Nova Scotia is, and where it is, and they had some fun with accents with all the kids coming from different regions. Michellie could represent the West and the East of Canada with accent fun!
There was a huge table set up at the hotel with all kinds of candy treats, and they were taken to several neat restaurants. Michellie got into a rhythm of what she could eat, and balanced her time with when wheat was an only choice. She is refusing to eat any more salads this week, so I will have to be creative - it seems she ate a lot of those. She is a little slow and tired today, but she is so glad she went on the trip. We are so thankful to Prudential Real Estate, and to the Sunshine Kids organization for creating this opportunity for the kids. Michellie was able to find her independence and to experience her own fun. She loved sharing with the other kids, and was able to fit into the group as everyone had different stories, issues, limitations, hair length etc.
Michellie did get to swim at the pool, and the chlorine shrivelled up all the dry skin on her feet and legs. Her rash is now a faint memory, and the last of the healing under the skin is almost complete. She is very happy to have this side effect gone. She has a few zits from all the sugar treats all week, but she says she is happy to not eat any more sugar for a while. Her clear skin should return quickly in that case. Her legs got a real workout walking, and there were no wheel chairs for her to rest in, so she had to keep going. After a few days rest I am sure she will be walking tall and strong again.
Michellie is resting at home today and then she will be off to school tomorrow. Her "big sister" Brittany is home for a visit, and they have not seen each other in over a year, so this afternoon will be a chance to catch up. They can have tea and chat - definitely more food for the soul.
Michellie spent a little money on herself - gifts from Sunshine Kids - she has some new t-shirts and a sweatshirt with Washington on it. She has an I Heart DC that has signatures all over it. (I am glad we used to do that with all of our dance shirts, as Michellie instigated this with the group on the last day). Great memories for sure.
Michellie also has a scrapbook they made together. She did a great job with this. There is a video of all their antics coming (we are told that only she will be able to see it - I am not sure what that means?!**) and the Sunshine Kids will post photos on their site as well. We will let you know when that happens.
So, we have a trip to Antigonish on Wednesday for her Pentamadene treatment (only one more after that), and we should be hearing from the hospital about our dates for the June follow up and Port removal. This weekend the Hillsborough Hall is hosting their weekly Jam night, with an honor to Michellie and a fundraiser for the IWK. That will be Saturday night. We are just in the process of planning the healing bracelet celebration, and we will post the details to this shortly as well.
So, off to make some lunch for us all - no salad for Michellie. Looking forward to posting pictures for you all. Thank you for all the well wishes, and for everyone's emails to keep up with Michellie this week. It is so great to write about good things and celebrations!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Wednesday, May 4th
We had a quick call from Michellie yesterday. She was at the Smithsonian and she was not feeling well. She was panicked and ready to come home. Esther worked her magic, and with a little pain killer and a hot pad, Michellie was able to continue with her day. They had a bowling tournament and then a pizza party to follow. She texted David this morning to say that she was feeling much better and ready for today. We hope she can relax and enjoy some fun today!
Monday, May 2, 2011
Monday, May 2nd
She is in Washington. Yesterday we arrived in Halifax in the early afternoon and went to the Hilton at the Airport to check in. From there we took Michellie to Pete's Fruitique for a little shopping. We also toured the mall and had some fun checking out the different shops. We did do the incredible candy store in Bedford, and miraculously Michellie made it out with no purchases. It was really torture to do that, but the store is so incredible, you just have to have a look.
We had a quick stop at the Krochko's to see their kitchen renovation. Everything is ripped apart and they are anxiously waiting for it all to get back together. It will be a wonderful new kitchen for some great entertaining opportunities.
From there we went to dinner and met with Emily Long and her family. They are from Sydney way, and Emily will be Michellie's roommate for the week. Emily is in Grade 9 and is 14 years old, and her birthday is the day after Michellie's. Emily had leukemia when she was in Grade 5 and had 2 years of treatment. It was great to get to know them, and to share our stories together.
We were up at 5:50 this morning to head to the airport. Michellie started with a stomach ache and tears. She was very nervous to go. We got her to the airport, and she skipped out on breakfast while we waited for everyone else to arrive. Esther was first to arrive. Esther was Michellie's nurse during her first stay at the hospital and on her third stay. Esther has the fun job of keeping them all in line for the week. Zack and Brennan also arrived at 7 am and we were busy getting to know each other. Zack is 13 years old and had the same form of lymphoma as Michellie, although it took over a year for them to diagnose him. He had no reaction to the chemo, other than losing his hair, but he retained excessive amounts of fluid from the prednisone. He just finished his treatments in January. Brennan had Non-Hodgkins lymphoma in his digestive tract. He was treated for Crohn's disease for a year before they determine he had cancer. He lost a lot of weight and was hospitalized for 8 months with a feeding tube as he could not eat. He finished his treatment in December and has a curly head of hair and is back to his normal weight now. He is 16 and in grade 11. Each story is so different, and thank goodness each outcome is shining in success.
The owner of Prudential Real Estate, Paul Doucet, and his co-worker, Marilyn Purdy, arrived just after 7. The had a gift bag for each traveller, with a water bottle, t-shirt, gum and a card with spending money. The kids were so surprised. Michellie doesn't know what she will spend her money on - as we told her she could not come back with any money in her pocket and she needed to spend on herself for a change. Esther assured us that shopping with her would be no problem! (Having shopped with Michellie, Esther has a big challenge ahead of her). The Real Estate group sponsors a fundraising Golf Tournament each fall to raise money for the Sunshine Kids. They raise over $25,000 each year to help towards sending the kids on special excursions. We are so grateful to all those who participate in such ventures. This will be an incredible opportunity for these kids. They are so deserving, and their ability to share experiences with others who have had similar challenges will be life changing.
The kids prepared to go through security at 8 am. There were some tears, but quickly they forgot about us as they went through screening. Michellie's apprehension turned to smiles and we were happy to see her disappear around the corner without a look back.
Michellie called us this afternoon after they arrived at the hotel. They had a bus to take them across the tarmack to the luggage sight. They had a bit of a wait for their luggage, and then they were whisked away to their five star hotel. The afternoon was open for relaxation and such, and Michellie and Emily were deciding on a movie, or a trip to the swimming pool. Michellie was giggling, because she had the least amount of hair, so she would be quick to get ready afterwards. There was a dinner planned for the evening, and they were anticipating meeting all the other kids arriving today. Michellie's voice was very up, light and giggly. She was happy to be there and she hadn't had any stomach issues since she left! We are very excited to hear all this, but most importantly, the happiness in her voice.
We had a quick stop at the Krochko's to see their kitchen renovation. Everything is ripped apart and they are anxiously waiting for it all to get back together. It will be a wonderful new kitchen for some great entertaining opportunities.
From there we went to dinner and met with Emily Long and her family. They are from Sydney way, and Emily will be Michellie's roommate for the week. Emily is in Grade 9 and is 14 years old, and her birthday is the day after Michellie's. Emily had leukemia when she was in Grade 5 and had 2 years of treatment. It was great to get to know them, and to share our stories together.
We were up at 5:50 this morning to head to the airport. Michellie started with a stomach ache and tears. She was very nervous to go. We got her to the airport, and she skipped out on breakfast while we waited for everyone else to arrive. Esther was first to arrive. Esther was Michellie's nurse during her first stay at the hospital and on her third stay. Esther has the fun job of keeping them all in line for the week. Zack and Brennan also arrived at 7 am and we were busy getting to know each other. Zack is 13 years old and had the same form of lymphoma as Michellie, although it took over a year for them to diagnose him. He had no reaction to the chemo, other than losing his hair, but he retained excessive amounts of fluid from the prednisone. He just finished his treatments in January. Brennan had Non-Hodgkins lymphoma in his digestive tract. He was treated for Crohn's disease for a year before they determine he had cancer. He lost a lot of weight and was hospitalized for 8 months with a feeding tube as he could not eat. He finished his treatment in December and has a curly head of hair and is back to his normal weight now. He is 16 and in grade 11. Each story is so different, and thank goodness each outcome is shining in success.
The owner of Prudential Real Estate, Paul Doucet, and his co-worker, Marilyn Purdy, arrived just after 7. The had a gift bag for each traveller, with a water bottle, t-shirt, gum and a card with spending money. The kids were so surprised. Michellie doesn't know what she will spend her money on - as we told her she could not come back with any money in her pocket and she needed to spend on herself for a change. Esther assured us that shopping with her would be no problem! (Having shopped with Michellie, Esther has a big challenge ahead of her). The Real Estate group sponsors a fundraising Golf Tournament each fall to raise money for the Sunshine Kids. They raise over $25,000 each year to help towards sending the kids on special excursions. We are so grateful to all those who participate in such ventures. This will be an incredible opportunity for these kids. They are so deserving, and their ability to share experiences with others who have had similar challenges will be life changing.
The kids prepared to go through security at 8 am. There were some tears, but quickly they forgot about us as they went through screening. Michellie's apprehension turned to smiles and we were happy to see her disappear around the corner without a look back.
Michellie called us this afternoon after they arrived at the hotel. They had a bus to take them across the tarmack to the luggage sight. They had a bit of a wait for their luggage, and then they were whisked away to their five star hotel. The afternoon was open for relaxation and such, and Michellie and Emily were deciding on a movie, or a trip to the swimming pool. Michellie was giggling, because she had the least amount of hair, so she would be quick to get ready afterwards. There was a dinner planned for the evening, and they were anticipating meeting all the other kids arriving today. Michellie's voice was very up, light and giggly. She was happy to be there and she hadn't had any stomach issues since she left! We are very excited to hear all this, but most importantly, the happiness in her voice.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Sunday, May 1st
Rabbits everyone. It is hard to believe we are looking at May already. Well, we are leaving for Halifax shortly and Michellie is doing the last minute suitcase check and teddy bear pack (Cookie Monster actually). Yesterday we were in Port Hawksbury to teach, and she met Sam for a few hours and some shopping. The weather report is now calling for rain in DC, so she has a new rain jacket and backpack to get her through. She is still coughing, but her plugged ear has cleared and her nasal drip is getting better. I am sure once she is on the plane, much will be forgotten.
While packing last night Michellie was befriended by a BAT in her room. There was a lot of screaming and cries from all of us as the bat flew around the whole upstairs area. MacKenzie was thrilled to finally have something exciting happening at our house, so he videotaped the event on his ipod. Michellie slammed herself into our room, and MacKenzie and I were able to catch the bat in a box and let it out the window into the night. Whew! That was exciting.
We are heading to Halifax this afternoon, and we will be meeting up with some of the kids this evening, and then everyone meets with the sponsors, Prudential Real Estate, at the airport at 7 am. The luggage is all labelled with Sunshine Kids and they will be hosted by many volunteers when they arrive in Washington.
So, I found Coconut Flour in Port Hawksbury yesterday, anyone with recipes or ideas of how to use this, please let me know.
We are not sure what updates we will get from Michellie while away, as she will not have her computer or cell phone with her. We will post what we can when we hear from her. Thanks for all the wishes from everyone for her trip. She is all smiles and ready to go now.
While packing last night Michellie was befriended by a BAT in her room. There was a lot of screaming and cries from all of us as the bat flew around the whole upstairs area. MacKenzie was thrilled to finally have something exciting happening at our house, so he videotaped the event on his ipod. Michellie slammed herself into our room, and MacKenzie and I were able to catch the bat in a box and let it out the window into the night. Whew! That was exciting.
We are heading to Halifax this afternoon, and we will be meeting up with some of the kids this evening, and then everyone meets with the sponsors, Prudential Real Estate, at the airport at 7 am. The luggage is all labelled with Sunshine Kids and they will be hosted by many volunteers when they arrive in Washington.
I am attaching a picture of the Carpe Diem group that performed at Cochrane Youth Talent Show last month. They ended up receiving Best Stage Performance for the whole competition event. This was their performance in the finale show. This performance was dedicated to Michellie and inspired by her journey. We are so proud of all the performers and honored for their recognition to Michellie. Congratulations on your award!!! Beautiful dress Chelsie-Anne - great color choice!
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| Best Stage Performance at Cochrane Youth Talent Show |
So, I found Coconut Flour in Port Hawksbury yesterday, anyone with recipes or ideas of how to use this, please let me know.
We are not sure what updates we will get from Michellie while away, as she will not have her computer or cell phone with her. We will post what we can when we hear from her. Thanks for all the wishes from everyone for her trip. She is all smiles and ready to go now.
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