In response to this press release last week, I wrote below article for HuffPost: 

This article was originally called "Canadians Need to Know They May Not Get Available Cancer Treatments" but I digress....

Patient Advocacy 101

eeeek - when I first explored the "advocacy" option of my melanoma journey, it wasn't entirely intentional... and I was intimidated, to say the least.  I had to read and re-read the advice posted online and really think it through.  

I was sure I needed to have my voice heard (and my family may or may not have been tired of hearing it!!); I had to go big... just a bite at a time, but bigger.  

I had already asked as many Oncologists as I could get my hands on about my disease, and how it may affect my future, and that of my kids (who, for the record, now have the dubious distinction of a close family history of cancer. For the rest of their lives they have to answer those questions when asked about their family medical history.)

I am starting to get more comfortable with advocacy, but the most important thing I have learned about it is that any little bit I do to contribute to it is helpful.  Every little bit helps, as with everything worth working toward in life. 

Last February I spoke at the meeting Save Your Skin hosted at Queen's Park, and I was nervous.  But I spoke about what I knew.  I was sure about what message I wanted to convey to the people in the room that night, it was my story after all, my family and I had lived it.  

Following that meeting I wrote a letter to Federal Minister of Health: Hon. Dr. Jane Philpott - thankfully I had help writing that letter! (I'm a decent writer, but not the political kind) It was my story, but with the background information and format needed to support it's credibility.  

A few months later I wrote another letter, to Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health in Ontario.  And just yesterday I attended a conference at which many patient groups were represented, and I learned even more about how I can get help trying to get my needs met, as a cancer patient in Canada.  

The painful memories of my experiences not that long ago motivate me to spend a bit of time sharing the reality of the situation.  And I have been hearing even more painful stories from across the country about Canadians that are not able to get access to cancer drugs that have been approved for use in Canada, but are not funded in their province. 

That's a thing.  That happens.  These days.  And you never know when it may affect you until you're right smack dab in the middle of it.  

The reason I am telling you all of this now?  RIGHT HERE:  this excerpt from yesterday's press release by Save Your Skin Foundation:

"In June 2016 the first PD-1 immuno-oncology treatment for melanoma, Keytruda, was listed to the provincial formulary with a recommendation to fund either Keytruda or Yervoy, but not both – so that anyone having received either of these treatments through standard treatment or in a clinical trial as of June 2, 2016 would not have access to any other immuno-oncology treatment, regardless of having two distinct mechanisms of action. Meaning any patient who does not respond to one immunotherapy has no opportunity to access a second line therapy option (in the BRAF wildtype population)." 

:-(

It's not as hard as I thought it would be to share my opinion with the leaders of our country and as such, our health care system.  Please... take it from me (one who always backs away from politically-charged conversations) - if I can do it?  YOU can do it.  

Should you feel inclined to take a few moments to email - doesn't even have to be snail mail - our provincial and federal leaders to ask for the treatments that I needed but received only through clinical trial, or... really, I have been spoiled enough with all this surviving stuff... how about an Ask for those patients who have yet to be as fortunate as myself: those on the wrong side of the coin toss, the gene mutation, or the province borders. 

It is made very easy here! 

I will list the individual resources so you can skip more of my blabbing on.  But for those who might like more description, check it out below this list:

1. Send(with edits) this letter to  Federal Minister of Health: 

Hon. Dr. Jane Philpott

House of Commons Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1A 0A6 

TO: Jane.Philpott@parl.gc.ca

2. Send same letter(with edits) to your Provincial Minister of Health.  Find your province here.

3. Read this  

4. If you are able to do more? Check out the details below:

Patient Advocacy – How YOU Can Help: 
Patient Advocacy Tools and Templates

We urgently need your help. Now is a critical time to push for provincial and federal support for equal timely access to new treatments for all melanoma patients so that no Canadian is left behind.

We urge you to consider writing to your Federal Health Minister and to your local government representatives to convey a request for support. We have also included this template letter, as well as links to appropriate government contacts, making it easy to find out who your provincial and federal representatives are.

The Save Your Skin Foundation has assembled materials to assist you to do the following:

1. Write to your Members of Parliament to share your thoughts on this issue or to request a meeting – contact information for local government members can be found at: http://www.parl.gc.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members
2. Write to your MLA/MPP asking that he/she write to the Minister of Health (click here to download sample letter)
3. Prepare for and have a meeting with your MLA (talking points and fact sheet)
4. Report back the results of your MLA meeting – contact us by email or phone any time
5. Write a letter for your MLA to send to the Minister of Health
6. Write to your provincial Ministers of Health -(Click here to find out who your provincial Minister of Health is: http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/health-system-systeme-sante/cards-cartes-eng.php)
7. Write to the Minister of Health – contact information can be found here: Federal Minister of Health: Hon. Dr. Jane Philpott – https://goo.gl/MB1XtI

If you’d like a general overview of patient advocacy, you can also download our 2016 advocacy outline by clicking here.

Thank you for taking the time to become involved on behalf of everyone affected by Melanoma across Canada.

Together we can and will make a difference!

Let your voice be heard via social media as well!

Tweet or post to share your message to accounts such as @HealthCanada using hashtags like: 

#FairChance

#MelanomaTreatment #FightMelanoma #HealthCanada #PublicHealth

#CureMelanoma #MelanomaSurvival #PatientsVoice #PatientsFirst

Facebook: 
www.facebook.com/SaveYourSkinFoundation/
www.facebook.com/FondationSauveTaPeau/

Twitter:  
@saveyourskinfdn  
@sauvetapeau

Important new cancer treatments approved by Health Canada marred by major provincial reality disconnect for patients - Press Release 22-Nov-2016

Patient access to innovative new cancer treatments seriously limited by provincial funding recommendations across Canada

Press Release body:

TORONTO, Nov. 22, 2016 /CNW/ - Health Canada recently conditionally approved an advanced new treatment option for Canadians battling metastatic melanoma. The treatment consists of a combination of two immuno-oncology agents: Opdivo + Yervoy, the first combination in the immunotherapy space. While many applauded the approval, numerous patients and doctors are holding their breath to see what provincial recommendations will come if approved for reimbursement by the pan-Canadian Oncology Drug Review (pCODR). Across Canada, cancer patients are being restricted to access to innovative new treatments due to funding recommendations made by health technology assessment agencies and provinces. Over the past year, patient access to some cancer treatments approved by Health Canada have been seriously limited as the result of these recommendations.

In June 2016 the first PD-1 immuno-oncology treatment for melanoma, Keytruda, was listed to the provincial formulary with a recommendation to fund either Keytruda or Yervoy, but not both – so that anyone having received either of these treatments through standard treatment or in a clinical trial as of June 2, 2016 would not have access to any other immuno-oncology treatment, regardless of having two distinct mechanisms of action. Meaning any patient who does not respond to one immunotherapy has no opportunity to access a second line therapy option (in the BRAF wildtype population).

 

Many more immuno-oncology drugs are currently in review, including a number aimed at treating non small cell lung cancer, the number one cause of cancer related deaths in Canadians and women. 

The Save Your Skin Foundation, along with other patient advocacy groups, are exceedingly concerned about what recommendations these approvals will come with and how they will affect access to important, potentially lifesaving therapies.

Kathy Barnard, Founder of the Save Your Skin Foundation, owes her survival of metastatic melanoma to Yervoy, which she received in a clinical trial, after failing on all previous treatments. "Finally, after 30 years, we are seeing innovative treatments that are helping patients live longer, but when provinces make funding recommendations that limit treatment options for patients, we are no further advanced than we were 30 years ago when no treatment options existed at all," says Barnard. "We're hearing from patients all over the country who are not getting the drugs they need and they don't know why."

It is not known yet what the funding recommendations on this new combination drug will be, however, currently in Canada, Yervoy, a CTLA-4 checkpoint inhibitor, as a single agent treatment, has now been restricted across all provinces - the only country in the world where this is the situation. 

"With this, we find Canada one step forward and two steps back, leaving some patients without access to the treatment they need. There is a clear lack of transparency as well as a lack of innovation in the approval process that is in stark contrast with the ever-evolving developments we are seeing in the treatment of cancer," expressed Barnard.

Barnard goes on to state that health technology assessment (HTA) agencies, governments and manufacturers must work together with oncologists to find strategies that translate to the best course of treatment for patients. "We need to work together to find innovative solutions that ensure breakthrough treatments are available to all patients, while also reducing time delays, in order to keep our health care system sustainable," said Barnard. "Cancer patients need to have access to cancer drug options, and access needs to be available from within the communities where they live."

About the Save Your Skin Foundation

The Save Your Skin Foundation is a Canadian registered not-for-profit that supports those touched by skin cancer by helping patients to navigate their journey through informed, compassionate care and personalized support to those touched by melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. Through programs and outreach, we support education and ongoing awareness about skin cancer, from prevention to survivorship. The Foundation also acts as a conduit for health care professionals and patients in the Canadian health technology assessment and reimbursement landscape. Please visit www.saveyourskin.ca for more information.

SOURCE Save Your Skin Foundation

For further information: Save Your Skin Foundation Media Relations: Karran Finlay, 1.778.988.8194, karran@saveyourskin.ca, saveyourskin.ca

About the day I got to thank MY melanoma Heroes

On this blog I have repeatedly touched on the massive feeling of gratitude I have for the family and friends, supporters, and community members I have been so blessed to have around me through this skin cancer battle.  My kiddos and I could not have survived this ordeal without you.  I believe that is one reason why I feel so strongly about supporting others in the melanoma community: to give back in a way that others may need, in case they are not spoiled rotten with loved ones, as I am.  

The awareness campaign #MelanomaHeroes speaks to me on an even more personal level though, as it provides the opportunity to publicly thank the two people who make my life worth living: my daughters.  Claire and Cass, my right-and-left-hand women.  My heroes, melanoma and otherwise.

Not only did they save my life, by encouraging (forcing) me to show that terrible mole-gone-bad to our doctor, but they continue to rescue me in little ways every day.  

The loving support they share, with me and with everyone they meet, is a beacon of light on an otherwise very dark journey.  

Thought I would share with you some candid photos of our day in Toronto, behind the scenes making the #MelanomaHeroes video.  It was a very emotional experience for us, but in our typical three-musketeer style we managed to goof around and have a totally fun day.  We laughed..we cried... and I learned a couple of things!

1.  Claire admitted, in her interview on camera (although it does not show in the video) that the reason she went with me to so many of my appointments in 2014-2015 was so that she could hear everything that was going on.  Here I thought she insisted on accompanying me because she wanted to encourage me to be strong, or she didn't want me to be lonely, or to maybe get some of that delicious mac n cheese at the Druxy's in Odette LOL  and it was those things as well, but the main reason was that she demanded complete transparency; she wanted to see my Oncologists too.  Fair.  Wow.. OK   At the outset of my diagnosis my very experienced family physician and I together decided that we would be open with the kids.  It's different with every family, but for ours it is better to explain things and be honest about what is going on.  

2.  I learned that a 14-year old young lady can still quickly humble her clown of a mother by spitting out gum in said mother's hand that appeared at said child's mouth by habit, even though the room was full of artistic professionals trying to film us for a serious topic.  Someone giggled from the back - "Ha Claire you just got MOM'd!!"  

3.  Film studios are very cool.  And the white-painted-out rounded corners are super trippy to walk around on.  And green screens are really green (we didn't use one, but on the tour we got to see an actual studio in which car commercials are filmed in Toronto).  

Here are some photos from this very powerful day.  Thank you to all involved - A and team - we heart you.  

 

Oh yes and one other funny moment from the interview-style filming session, my gum-spitting daughter was being a bit smart-alecky before I pulled out the letter that I had written to surprise them with a detailed thank you.  

I received the cue from the director, which we had pre-planned: nearing the end of our interview, he said "is there anything else you can think of to say?"  

...I paused for a moment, gathering my wits for what I knew would be an emotional moment.  And Claire sassed "YAH Mom - you better think of something good!"  haha 

Little did she know, I did think of something good!  And the look of surprise on her face was perfectly captured in the video.  I loved it, couldn't have worked better.  :-)

Click here to watch the video:

 

Parenting Identical Twins - What I Have Learned About Nature vs. Nurture ~ HER MAGAZINE

Thanks to Her Magazine for the ongoing support of my parenting via writing, I have published another cute little piece about my observations and experiences in Motherhood.  

Thank you Her Magazine, was great to work with you! 

(update 30-March-2018: sadly, Her Magazine has been retired from the internet, so the links to my articles there no longer work.   Please see below for full original article I have pasted in today)

My other bylines on Her Mag: 

                

https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/her-magazine/skin-cancer_b_10004502.html

http://hermagazine.ca/school-lunches-pack/ 

Parenting Identical Twins: My Lesson in 'Nature vs. Nurture'

Natalie Richardson, October 19, 2016 ~Her Magazine

Fifteen years ago I was sure I had it all figured out.  Contentedly reclined in my fluffy new double-wide chair, classical music playing softly beside my tummy, I worked my way through a pile of parenting books, preparing for the baby twins I would soon have. Sometimes I even read out loud, in the most maternal voice I could imagine for myself.

  
As a first-time mother, I perceived that I had an innate understanding of the Nature vs. Nurture theory, and I was going to Nurture my babies until the cows came home. The Nature vs. Nurture debate is a centuries-old discussion in psychology which addresses human behavioural traits as being directly impacted by influences genetically inherited versus by environmental imprint.
In other words, there is debate over how a human baby grows into an adult with unique characteristics and personality traits: is it as a result of their hereditary family make-up?  Or is it because they were raised that way by their family and surroundings?  

I was pretty sure that my strict upbringing and well-travelled childhood experiences had sculpted my diverse psyche and moral temperament.  I had every intention of parenting our twins with down to earth methods and old-fashioned logic.  They would not watch much television, they would eat their vegetables, they would learn to read before they were given a gaming console, and they would look people in the eye when they spoke to them.  
 

My daughters were born identical twins, with a late split in utero landing them in the same sac and with a shared placenta.  These babes couldn’t possibly BE any closer in DNA, short of being conjoined.  Their environment was identical also.  They looked alike, they had the same sleep and eat patterns, they learned to talk, walk, and potty within days of each other.  They were very good babies, calm yet curious, with bright intelligent eyes that observed everything.

My whole “Nurture” plan was working well: they thrived on routine and knew what to expect in most situations.  They knew their colours and farm animal sounds, they loved finger painting and their Baba’s blueberry perogies.  They grew into toddlers who loved all people and animals.  They were a matched set, adorable girls so identical they would forever confuse their grandparents as to which was which.
 

And then… subtle differences in characteristics began to appear… one ate more slowly than the other, one was very bold at the zoo, one would cover her ears when people sang Happy Birthday, one favoured her left hand for colouring. Their natural differences began to sprout out of our very nurturing environment.  It was interesting to watch these developments happen.  But I was also puzzled.  
 

These girls had done everything together since day one.  They had precisely the same hours of sleep and play, they were always together when family visited, they usually even had the same number of peas on their plates at dinner time!  They slept in the same crib and then bedroom, listened to the same songs, were scolded in the same manner – it wasn’t intentional, it was just typical, as they were always in the same phase at the same time. 
 

I am a bit surprised at how different they are when they have been exposed to the same environment all their lives.  The good and the bad: same classrooms throughout elementary school, same divorce and family visiting schedule, same small town hobbies and teams.  They were a perfect experiment in Nature vs. Nurture, had I wanted that.   
 

I had put full stock in Nurturing them to the best of my ability, but I was learning that their own Natures might come out on top.  One is inventive and one is artistic – they had each had the same number of crayons all their lives – how did this happen!? 
 

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t mind at all – of course I was not trying to raise clones.  I just wasn’t of the mind that they needed to be separated very much, there would be plenty of time for that later in life. 

 They don’t struggle with any of these issues at all, they love being identical twins.  They still sometimes buy matching clothing so they can “be twins,” and they frequently change their hairstyles (and colours) to distinguish themselves or to go back to matching. 
 

My teenagers are each other’s best friends, sharing many similarities but also taking their differences in stride.  One is a sassy left-handed night-owl, while the other is a determined young lady with a regimented focus on her future.
 

What have I learned about Nature vs. Nurture?  That there is solid reason for it having been such a long-lived debate.  
 

I cannot determine how or why my children are turning out the way they are, but I put everything I have into exposing them to a good environment.  Thankfully their gene pools are pretty solid as well, so maybe both theories get equal credit in this house?

WHY Save Your Skin Foundation? ~ Guest Blogger, me

Lots in the works in my neighbourhood these days, so exciting!  Feels like really LIVING.  

This is where is all began for me.... 
Please click here to check out this blog post I wrote in honour of my joining the Save Your Skin Foundation team:

#MelanomaHeroes - Awareness Campaign

When asked if I would invite my "melanoma heroes" to join me in the creation of a video for a thoughtful online skin cancer awareness campaign, I jumped at the opportunity.  Although I wanted to bring with me to Toronto my entire posse of family and friends who have loved and supported me through my battle in the last couple of years, we don't have a big enough car. ;-)   SO... I chose two... the two most important heroes in my life.  Naturally: my daughters.  

#MelanomaHeroes aims to shine a spotlight on the everyday heroes – the friends, family and caregivers supporting patients every step of the way. Just as they provide support, they also deserve our support and recognition. Many of these people remain hidden from public view, and can be under-recognised for the tremendous role they play. (Source)

Claire and Cass and I buzzed to the city one fine summer day to spend an artistic afternoon with a fabulous team of film-makers, sound experts, video techs, makeup, lighting, directors, PR crew in charge of creating the video that will share our story along with other melanoma survivors and their heroes.   

I was able to surprise the girls with a letter I had written to them, reading it on camera to surprised faces with heart-warming tears.  It was a powerful moment for all three of us.  

Enough of my chatter, please click here to watch the video, and to learn more about #MelanomaHeroes and how they keep us alive:

What does it take to be a Melanoma Hero?  Click here to see..... 

natalie@saveyourskin.ca

I am thrilled to announce that my support of Save Your Skin Foundation is taking a more formal role:  I have accepted a position on the SYSF team as Project Coordinator, working from my home office in Meaford, Ontario, with the odd commute to Toronto.  I am very happy to lend my patient voice/experience, fund raising, writing, and project management skills to be the "feet on the ground" in Ontario for this wonderful Foundation.  

In my darkest days, circa February 2015, I found Save Your Skin by an odd chance, and they quietly helped me to challenge my fears and learn about my options.  I clicked and emailed and phoned, and Kathy and her team warmly welcomed me to share my tears, my experience, and my hopes for the future.  They supported and encouraged me in a way I needed at the time, with the experience and confidence only a metastatic melanoma survivor can give another sharing this journey. Gratitude fuels my determination to help Save Your Skin Foundation help others, in the way they help me.  

I am so very thankful to all of my generous - and patient! - family and friends, my doctors, my posse, my past employers, my readers and colleagues newly discovered:  it takes a village to raise a cancer patient.  And if I say so myself, you have all done an amazing job!  You saved my life.  I cannot thank you enough.  

Time for me to take the next step, get back out there, and make you proud.  

I am happy.  For the first time in about three years I can say that. I am happy.   I am feeling better!  

The focus of my life has again become what I CAN do,      as opposed to what I cannot do. 

 http://www.saveyourskin.ca/blog/what-patient-advocacy-means-to-me/

As I exit my role as Front End Manager at Bill's valu-mart in Meaford, I would like to thank my friends there for their care and camaraderie (and prime rib roasts).  I do miss you guys! 

In the two and a half years since my "cancer sabbatical" began, I have had plenty of time to ponder what I want to be when I grow up.  A complete shock to the system such as this affords some time to re-think the professional efforts I will put forward in my future.  

I know I can no longer hack the long days that run into long weeks, nor the physical and emotional marathons that go along with 20+ direct reports, but I know I cannot draw out the generous benefits offered either, when I know in my heart I will not return.  Self-preservation yes, unethical No Thank You.
I appreciate the disability benefits which have allowed me appropriate time for recovery, and I am grateful for having the opportunity to come back when I was able.   I am ready to go back to work now, but in a different capacity, my passion has shifted.   Thank you for your understanding.  
I wish you the best in filling my role there; may you enjoy continued success in your business! 

(obviously, I gave my notice to Bill almost two weeks ago, I have not just resigned via blog ~ For the record, thank you)   

Understanding Your Pathology Report - SYSF Webinar

Last week Save Your Skin Foundation facilitated a very informative webinar with Dr. Alan Spatz, Director, Pathology Department, Jewish General Hospital & Professor, Pathology and Oncology, McGill University. 

To diagnose diseases such as cancer, a sample of tissue called a biopsy is taken from a patient and examined by a pathologist to determine if cancer is present. A pathologist will then examine specimens removed during surgery (resections) for conditions such as cancer, to determine whether the tumour is benign or cancerous, and if cancerous, the exact cell type, grade and stage of the tumour. The pathologist, who is a member of your medical team, writes the pathology report that your treating doctor uses to provide the best care for you as a patient. In this webinar, Dr. Alan Spatz,Director of the Pathology Department at the Jewish general Hospital in Montreal, will provide insight on understanding your pathology report so that you can play an active role in your treatment. (source: SYSF)

When I was newly diagnosed with invasive nodular melanoma, I did not know where to turn for more information about my disease.  I was "banned" from googling it, so I asked every Physician I came into contact with for an explanation of the bizarre-looking terms on my medical reports.

After watching this webinar last week I am happy to report that my Oncologists and Fellows and my Family Physician all explained my pathology reports very well.  Consistent answers have led to my thorough understanding of the condition of my melanoma and it's effect on my body, and this was all reinforced on this webinar Understanding Your Pathology Report.  

I highly recommend anyone diagnosed with skin cancer at any stage watch this.  It is detailed for sure, and may even be a bit intimidating for someone newly diagnosed, but you can always bookmark it and check it out at a later date.  

I particularly liked the diagrams of microscopic samples of the various stages of a skin cancer, include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.  Also, this is the first image I have found on the internet of my type of nodular melanoma, the black one on the right (gross), though mine was larger and had an irregular border.  Blech. 

Anyway... the other details I found of interest was the explanation of HOW skin cancers are defined, and how the classification method for each of the factors that make up a diagnosis, are universal around the world.  All Pathologists use this method of defining each detail, ie. Breslow thickness (anything over 1mm in depth is considered invasive... mine was a 12.5mm).  

Please click here to watch, to register only your name and email address are required, then it goes right into the webinar: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4021315721502861060

Thank you yet again, Save Your Skin Foundation!

Column - Meaford Express - Simcoe.com Oct. 2016 - Work after a cancer diagnosis

This subject has been forefront on my mind during recovery from cancer surgeries and treatments, though I have not discussed it publicly.  Until now.  

It is a difficult topic for many folks dealing with a life-interrupting illness: what to do about work?  How to maintain or regain a sense of purpose? How to deal with the stigma of being away?  How to get back in.... and how to be true to yourself, your family, and your "new normal."

Please click here to read my column:

17-Oct-2016 ~ Added note: 

I received a helpful email from my Aunt, suggesting I add a bit more information to this article.  Although I can't add it to the published version on simcoe.com, I can add it here.  

What she says is true, and more can be found elsewhere online or with one's personal employer in such a situation, and I was indeed offered these alternatives at my place of employ (thank you Bill's valu-mart).  If you find yourself in a health crisis such as mine, please consider the following: 

You might want to include something on the legal right to accommodation:  the employer's duty to accommodate – short of undue hardship. While individual choices are important – and the accommodation requirement must be individualized – I think that many people do not know that they also have legal rights, for example, that a gradual return to work, or shorter hours, or other accommodations aren't just at the preference or 'good intentions' of their employer or union.  (Of course, the employee must also be willing to 'accommodate' and seek solutions.)

Click image:

Or visit http://www.ohrc.on.ca/en for more information re: Ontario 

Thank you Auntie C! 

Career Change

I have the luxury of boasting a very good resume.  Part is due to hard work and perseverance, part is good timing, part is simply going with the flow of my professional passions in the moment, and part is ...dare I say... luck.  ALL of it is true. 

I have always believed in the philosophy that if one follows their passion in life, then money will come along with that.  Naturally or with a bit of craftiness, money has always accompanied my career choices, even if just enough to cover expenses for the girls and I.  Certainly not rich, but comfortable enough.  Frankly I wouldn't want to be rich anyway... that would be boring.  

After I left University (withOUT a degree, but I digress...) I worked a smattering of part-time jobs in London and Cambridge; grocery, pet stores, home-cleaning on the side.  From that stemmed my first opportunity into the business world, with a collection agency to which I still owe my deepest gratitude for giving me a chance.  That starting CHANCE is what can make or break a career.  

After two years there I worked for Open Text Corporation in Waterloo, my eye-opener into the Tech Sector - this was only months after I had actually gotten my own computer and on "the Internet."  I started in Customer Service, taking Tech Support calls from companies worldwide using the software created by OT; Livelink, a type of internal communication and customer management system software newly invented in the time.  From that I progressed into Analysis and began to learn the details of customer support contracts, a multi-million dollar business.  

My big business experience grew with a team shift to Research in Motion, the maker of the then-explosively-popular BlackBerry® handheld device.  It was a risk to jump from OT to RIM, but this well-timed leap landed me a lovely benefits package and a Supervisor title.  

I led a team of Analysts in the Customer Support Department; I loved the busy atmosphere and the youth-oriented climate of the business.  We gathered to watch Team Canada in the lunchroom when they played, we sported company shirts and swag as frequent gifts from the management, and we grew our careers in every way possible, working hard and being ever so connected to our devices.

Pause career - time for me to have babies!  Having been married five years my husband and I got to a point where life was just too simple... we needed to liven things up a bit.  Ha - not just one baby but two!? threw us for a nicely livened loop - my career took a longer pause than anticipated.  I was suddenly driven to immerse myself in motherhood, stretching my year maternity leave into an extended leave which ultimately resulted in my leaving RIM *GASP* - unthinkable at the time.   Crazy.  But I couldn't have it any other way, I had to be home with my babes.  

Skip ahead a year or so and I did (luckily!) end up back at RIM, in an even more fabulous position, Intranet Content Specialist.. ahhh.. so fun! Challenging, interesting, profitable, project management and communications, a position that taught me everything that I have since come to realize: I love this shit!!  I got to work with hundreds of talented people, in a vibrant city full of delicious ethnic foods, learning something new every day.  

A twist of fate then moved me back to Meaford, and far away from my beloved career.  It was bittersweet; despite the loss in professional acumen, I gained precious years with my young twins that I will never regret having.  

Several years of self-employment and tenacious scraping-together of mortgage payments gave me personal and professional experience that kept me from becoming complacent.  I always appreciated a new customer or an interesting job that kept me focused on my business, and on my life.  

Some of my fondest memories of self-employment include countless hours on the side of the valley overlooking Heathcote, doing garden work and property maintenance for a retired garlic farmer with a penchant for flowerbeds.  Oh the lavender... and the hearty outdoor chores.  I flourished there under the sun. 

Another bend in the road brought me back to The Corporation, when I became a Scotiabanker, here in Meaford.  Office skills came rushing back as I dusted off my dress suits - and my manicure.  I honed cash-counting skills and ran circles around the Customer Service competition, making friends I will cherish for the rest of my life.  

Three very busy years there, and I was presented with an opportunity I couldn't resist: management in a major grocery chain.  I have always wanted to own my own book store/cafe/foodie shop, so when this job came along I took it to be a good sign.  

I became the Manager of the fastest-paced department I have ever witnessed, in charge of payroll, cashiers and cash-handling, and Customer Support for our small-town big-ole' grocery store.. holy.  I quickly grew to know the members of my team, and I worked tirelessly to try to improve conditions for customers and staff alike.  I tried... but...

Full stop: pause career - Cancer diagnosis!  This story is starting to feel like a real-time game of "Life."   

In the two and a half years since my cancer sabbatical began, I have had plenty of time to ponder what I want to be when I grow up.  A complete shock to the system such as this affords some time to re-think the professional efforts I will put forward in my future.  

I know I can no longer hack the long days that run into long weeks, nor the physical and emotional marathons that go along with a job like that, but I know I cannot draw out the generous benefits offered either, when I know in my heart I will not return.  Self-preservation yes, unethical No Thank You.  

I have spent a good portion of the the last year-plus volunteering my efforts and emotions to the cause of skin cancer awareness.  Compelled to share my story for the benefit of others, I have had plenty of opportunity to test myself, see what I'm really made of.  What's in it for me?  

A down-to-earth analysis of my own collection of skills and experiences, at home but also in a professional setting.  Plus I may even have the chance to reach but one person who will find hope in the darkest moment, as I did when I seeked out support for my melanoma dilemma.  

My professional passion has shifted.  It is not lost, as it has taken me a while to realize... it is just different.  After advanced cancer diagnosis I mourned my "loss of career" as I saw it... unsure of anything, and certainly unsure of my job title.  

I floundered, not knowing where to turn, knowing one thing for sure: it wasn't back at the helm of a huge team of personal involvement and relentless stair-climbing.  Part of my identity was missing, I felt I had no purpose... motherhood yes, survivor yes, but professional? No career purpose. 

Until a few short weeks ago.  I received another clear CT scan and oncology consult, in which I graduated from three month check-ups to six-month follow-ups.  I panicked at first, but as the knowledge set in so did the good feeling.  

I had more energy; I was involved in more stuff than I had given myself credit for.  I learned how to post my own blogs to Huffington Post! and I knew what I had to do.....  keep doing what I had been doing for the last year or so.  Promote advocacy for melanoma and skin cancer support and awareness across Canada. And Write.  

I want to write, so write I do.  I want to advocate, so advocate I do.  Pretty selfish, all this post-cancer stuff... but I'm hoping to turn it into a positive kind of selfish.  

The kind where I can explore a city like Montreal by my own whim, and then the next day speak with the most inspiring group of people I have ever met.  

The kind where I can use my professional skills to help an organization which has helped me immeasurably, and then help them again, in turn, helping the people they help.  Write, advocate, explore, write, advocate, explore... that's my plan.   

As such I will introduce my career change.  It is a life change the likes of which I never expected to experience, and I am incredibly grateful for it.  I feel more alive than I have in years, my passion is ignited.  I have found my niche.  I know what I want to be when I grow up. 

It is with immense gratitude that I can say I (finally) have a return-to-work plan, details coming soon.

Plumbing vs. Electrical

Even in the renovations I have had done to my homes over the years, I have always preferred the electrical work to the plumbing.  The way electrical wires and cords connect or disconnect and trigger each other to do things fascinates me. Electrical panel is the master, it all makes sense!  

As opposed to the gravity-fed, dark, wet, twisty-turny pipes... draining stuff and leaking all over, they have always caused me anxiety and headache.  

Much in the same with the host of "situations" that can happen in one's health when dealing with cancer: the pipes are dreadful.  I received a second opinion from a local Surgeon/Gastroenterologist this evening (as if I had not had a crazy enough day already).  Just saying. 

I was given a diligent reminder, in the form of a very frank conversation with a Resident Physician (who was very caring BTW), that I have a serious form of a deadly disease.  Much as the positive-thinking crew and let's-move-past-it friends in my life cheerfully try to distract me (which I appreciate!), it is I who sits in the appointment chair discussing my very personal plumbing issues.  This is an unmistakable hallmark of living with advanced cancer.  

Once it's in there you're screwed.  It can go anywhere.  

Prevention is key.  

Early detection is almost even more key (because at least then treatment, in whatever form may be appropriate, is targeted to the detected disease).   

But still early detection can be a struggle on it's own - I have been resisting the damn scope for over over a year!  Stupid! you'd think I would have learned after the whole MOLE-NEGLECT problem in the first place!?! 

No..... I have been putting off further examination of my plumbing since the damage apparently done by the pacmen... 

But the buck stops here.  The Boss spoke to the Singing Surgeon and told him to get me in the hot seat.  Uurghh

Off I go for a scope and a gastroscopy.  We need to rule out any other form of cancer in my digestive system before we just go and blame my tummy trouble on the immunotherapy.  I mean, we all KNOW it's from the immunotherapy, but.......

As my Medical Oncologist told me at Sunnybrook a couple of weeks ago, we need to make sure that the reaction of my immune system to the treatments I had did not bring to the surface any other anomalies in that time.  I have dodged it so far this year, even tried all the diet and NON-(alcohol) tricks I could think of this summer, but no escaping the Boss-Surgeon team, they have me in their sights.  

Stupid cancer.  I used to be free!! Please let me re-iterate ...click here to politely re-cap one of my early admissions to having tummy trouble.  If not no worries, just take my word for it, it's been a long friggen time that I have been dealing with this.  Once you have cancer, it never goes away.  

O n c e  Y o u  H a v e  C a n c e r,  I t  N E V E R  g o e s  A w a y !  Your ass is grass.  So to speak. 

Have to rant every now and then, keeps it real.  All true though, seriously. 

One interesting note though that I would like to add, is that the Singing Surgeon (as I have lovingly dubbed him) happens to be the actual person who removed my melanoma-infused mole in April 2014, and did my sentinal node biopsy.  True story!  He is a surgeon in the next town over, but he also happens to specialize in gastro-stuff, and he is the Chief of Staff at the hospital in which I had my first CT scan.  

He has followed my story since diagnosis, he has been CC'd on my clinical notes from Sunnybrook for 2.5 years, and tonight he said right to my face that he reads each one.  Crazy guy! He must work 24-7.  
He recognized me, and even asked how the girls are (he also removed moles on my kids, hence the singing story).  His warm personality and honest humour made me giggle when he said "I always remember a face!  I don't always remember what procedure I may have done on you though... which makes it far less awkward if we run into eachother in the grocery store!!"  wink wink     LOL I'm in good hands, must trust my physicians.  

OK, I'll quit whining now.  

https://impatientpatientmomma.blogspot.ca/2016/03/as-stomach-churns.html

https://impatientpatientmomma.blogspot.ca/2016/01/relaxing-saturday.html

https://impatientpatientmomma.blogspot.ca/2015/02/little-things.html