These next few posts are late. Very late. But like so many others, 2020 has thrown hurdles of all sorts in my direction. I’ve tripped, fallen, persevered, succumbed, laughed, cried and drank. Oh, how I have drunk this year.

It seems almost humorous now, that by the end of January I truly thought this year could not get any worse. I felt loss. Heavy loss. That thinking back on, makes you break into sobs, look skyward and just hope they are up there free and happy.

My Aunt Laureen did not lead an easy life. Riddled with illness from an early age. She was only 4 when she was diagnosed with Kidney disease, and was not expected to live past the age of 12. Rather than birthday parties and sleepovers, she spent her childhood in and out of the hospital. Something you would never have guessed, had you met her later in life, from her infectious smile that could light even the darkest corners of the world.

In 1985, thanks to a perfect kidney match, and the bravery of my Aunt Jacqui (who I will FOREVER be in awe of), Laureen received a transplant, and a second chance at life. I highly doubt she took one day of it for granted. She defeated all odds and had two happy healthy children, Amie and Jacob. Went back to school to get her degree. Had more faith in her little pinky than Sunday mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. And became an influential advocate for Organ Donations in Canada. The walking poster-girl for the gift of life.

Though my heart has always felt so close to my cousin Amie, (despite the distance), I grew closest with Laureen in 2006 – 2007 when an acceptance letter from Ottawa University put us, for once, in the same place at the same time. My capital city confidant, Laureen picked me up from res once every few weeks or so for a little feel of home. Our days together were all different, yet the same. We’d giggle incessantly through an aqua fit class surrounded by wading seniors, followed by a heart to heart as we sweat it out in the sauna. Or we’d head to the mall where we mostly window shopped with my student budget and shared a Cinnabon or lemonade from the food court. The day always ended with a home cooked dinner, shared with Laureen, Ed, and Jacob, and quite often a round of cards or a board game.

I struggled through the second half of my first year. I had just gone through my first “real” breakup, and I was incredibly homesick. Laureen became my ally. Our visits grew more frequent, hugs lasted longer, and I’m not quite sure how I would have gotten through that year without her.

Late 2015, Laureen was diagnosed with cancer. It was a blow to a woman who had already broken through the barriers of health limitations and built such a beautiful life. The family put on a big face. She had overcome before and her strength and faith would help guide her through once more. Not once did she ever allow herself to be defined by her sickness. She was always our Reenie, full of beans and smiling.

As devastating as it was, it was a fight she was not destined to win. And though her battle with cancer lasted 5 strenuous years, in January we said good bye to our beautiful beacon of light Laureen. It pains me to think we will never again share a joyous day at the pool, or sweet treat from the food court. But I’m certain Thomas and Grandpa are grateful for the new company.

She will forever be remembered and missed always.

 

Support Organ Transplants

• Be a hero! Please consider registering your consent for organ and tissue donations. To register online, click here!
• Every year, Laureen proudly participated in a 5k Kidney Walk. This year, with COVID restrictions, the walk is virtual. Please consider joining or sponsoring in memory of Laureen. To join our walk, click here!