Return the Sparkle to Laurie's Life
Laurie has recently been diagnosed with Stage 4 lung and stage 3 pancreatic cancer.
This past December (2017) Laurie found herself without appetite, suffering from severe shortness of breath and stabbing stomach pains. She was so ill, she called 911. Over the following four weeks, a whirlwind of bloodwork, x-rays, CT scans and an MRI revealed, in addition to a 28 pound weight loss, cancerous tumours on her pancreas and left lung. When the dust settled, Laurie was told, that without treatment, she had less than four months to live. With successful treatment, the doctors say Laurie may have another year, maybe two. Heart-wrenching and devastating news for anyone never mind one who has been so active and full of life... til now.
Laurie started chemotherapy immediately and alarmingly, during the first round, her heart stopped from one of the chemicals in the preparation. She was revived and suffered no apparent ill effects but, a terrifying moment for her to be certain. Changes were made and her chemotherapy continues with no such further problems.
Laurie has lost in excess of 28 pounds and is currently struggling to maintain even 100 lbs, she is very weak and lacking in stamina, side effects of the chemo include loss of appetite and hair loss, currently falling out by the handful. The climb up the stairs from her basement apartment saps what little energy she has. Adding to her struggles, she has been given notice that she must move due to her landlord selling the house and is now desperately searching for a new home.
Her car, which could aid in that search; trips to chemo and simple things like grocery shopping, sits in her driveway requiring some minor repairs and insurance. The car could restore independence to this once vivacious and cheerful woman. Laurie lives on a small fixed income that barely covers accommodation and food. She relies on the generosity of nearby friends for transportation and simple housekeeping chores. Unfortunately there are many occasions when no one is available to help when she is in need.
Lauries' situation is desperate needing both financial and emotional support. Since giving up her position with the garden centre, because of her illness, even small expenses become insurmountable obstacles.
Laurie's hair is falling out and will be completely gone in two weeks if not before. A good wig, needed now, will go a long way to lifting her spirits. Car insurance for the next year, hopefully longer, repairs for her car to make it roadworthy, a crown for her tooth, a new laptop since her old one has died. Eye glasses redone to her changing prescription. Healthy food with a budget for organic and GMO free choices and holistic supplements. Chiropractic treatments that have proven to provide relief from her chronic lower back pain. These are just a few of the items that would greatly improve her quality of life over the coming months and assistance that she would be eternally grateful for.
None of us knew how dire the situation was for Laurie at the onset, yet she remains positive, fun-loving, caring, always thinking of others, with an incredible sense of humour. Her attitude is truly beautiful; She is the best friend anyone could ask for and is always giving to others. Now, with her prognosis, needing all the optimism she can muster and our shock at such a sudden and dramatic turn of events, we need to gather around and support our dear friend. For behind her calm and upbeat facade lies constant pain and dread over what the future may or may not hold for her. Laurie needs your help right now.
My dear friend Laurie is a very special, beautiful woman, please help her as she struggles with the chemotherapy, searches for a new home, retain her dignity, regain her independence and fight the inoperable cancers that are sapping the spark and life from her. Let's do what we can to give this beautiful soul some quality of life in the time she has remaining.
With love, grace and peace,
Shelley Ollivier
Shelley and Laurie - Sept 2017