To all of Sandy’s family and friends,

We are so completely saddened to say that our mom, everyone’s dear Sandy, passed away late last Monday night (technically early Tuesday morning, September the 8th) at home.

For those who were unaware, she had been admitted to the hospital for a liver drain procedure and stayed there for three weeks due to decreased liver and kidney function. Her cancer had progressed to the point that she was no longer responding to treatment and it was affecting those major organs in her body. 

Sandy was brought home on Thursday, September 3rd and we had a lot of support at home--a palliative care doctor, overnight nurses, personal support workers, visiting nurses, and care and company from her family. We had a hospital bed set up in the guest room and other equipment all available. She was so happy to be home with that beautiful view.

Sandy was surrounded by loved ones when she passed away and we have found peace knowing we got to spend lots of time with her in the last week. She meant the world to us and, even in the last days, she was able to smile and get us laughing.

She lived a very full life and spent the last 4.5 years (since her diagnosis) having so much fun and cherishing her time with friends and family. She fished, knit, played the ukulele, cross-country skied, worked at a skating rink, helped friends by selling their things, was an amazing friend to all her neighbours, called in to more than a few radio contests, cleaned toilets at a yoga studio in exchange for classes, skated on Meech lake, the canal, and Lac-des-Loups, went to Nashville and Montauk with the Girl’s Weekend girls, went on a cruise with two of her brothers and sisters-in-law, went to Brigitte’s graduation in Vancouver, went on walks/hikes/bike rides with great friends, went to Halifax, attended beautiful weddings, visited cottages, saw some of her favourite bands, had many game and card nights, etc. She was so thoughtful, funny, told the best stories, was always ready for an adventure, game, contest, or Kijiji sale, and never ever complained. 

We know how much our mom meant to all of you, but you all also meant SO MUCH to her. We are so incredibly grateful for our amazing support network and for all of the love and kindness we have received. It is so nice to be able to read your comments from the past years. You were her biggest cheerleaders.

It was too short of a run, but a very good run and a fun run.

Big hugs to all of you,

xoxo

Steffi, Brigitte, and Gaby