It's a difficult thing to figure out how to start paragraph that will encompass everything that is "Sandra's Story". Do we start at the beginning, plop into the middle or inch towards the end...and while we are, in some ways, nearing the end of this part of Sandra's Story, we are incredibly hopeful that there is still much to write.
As most of you are aware, in February of 2015 Sandra was diagnosed with breast cancer. After undergoing surgery, chemo and many rounds of radiation, on November 23rd, 2015 she was finally able to ring the gong in London surrounded by friends and family to signal the end of her cancer treatment. Unfortunately, it would only be a brief reprieve from the disease.
Earlier this summer, after much diagnostic testing and scans it was revealed that Sandra's cancer had returned, and has metastasized to other areas of her body. The type of breast cancer that Sandra has does not respond to normal forms of chemotherapy and is incredibly aggressive and unforgiving. A month and a half ago Sandra elected to undergo trial treatments in Toronto at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in an effort to slow down the progression of the cancer and potentially shrink the tumours, but last week had to forgo the trials due to unmanageable pain.
Currently, Sandra has undergone one round of chemotherapy, and is slated to begin radiation in London next Monday for two weeks. The hope is that the radiation will provide her with the best quality of life possible through the immediate reduction of her pain. Thankfully, at the moment Sandra's pain is now being managed effectively which has been an amazing blessing to Sandra, her kids, and all of us who love her.
It is our hope with this page that we can keep you updated as best we can, as we understand it is difficult not knowing what is happening. I am as guilty as any of you, if I hear nothing - my mind wanders. It is our hope also that you will use this page to communicate with Sandra, share pictures, memories, or just call her "Tig" as this page will be maintained and archived for the kids to have as the years go by. If you do not feel comfortable reaching out on a somewhat public forum, please reach out to Sandra at teamsandramelady@gmail.com - this is also a special email to gather all messages of love for Sandra, her kids and her family to have as we move forward.
Much love, Mel
PS...the purpose of this site is not to solicit donations, please do not donate.
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