Paola Ortiz

I am a Non-Hodgkins lymphoma stage 4 survivor

I am a Non-Hodgkins lymphoma stage 4 survivor, diagnosed November 2012

It's a shock when you get the news, and it was so hard to call my family and let them know the news. I was fortunate to have such support from my husband and kids in addition to my family. The diagnosis came after moving to Edmonton, and we did not know anyone or have family around. I got by with help from the amazing Doctors and nurses at the Cross-Cancer Institute, and so we decided to fight with everything we had. Our biggest challenge was how to re-organize our family life to face a new reality; I was a stay-at-home Mom with two small children. My husband and I decided to make my treatment the priority to accommodate my tests. My treatment started in January and continued until June. I felt the love of family and friends, even they were far away. They always found a way to make me think, I was not alone. They were calling me or conference calling me throughout my treatments; they sent me T-shirts for me to wear during my treatments. It was amazing to see something positive, even in that condition. I started my chemo happily because I thought it was going to cure me and give me another chance.

How has my life been changed by a blood cancer - I was keeping in the back of your mind - fear, especially for the first two years after treatment. They were the most difficult ones. I participated in a clinical trial, though, I had more checkups than usual, so that was reassuring and helped me overcome the fear.

When I joined Light The Night, I was trying to find a way how to give back. Having the resources to support others changes everything. I wanted to be there to express my support for those currently fighting; they need to know they are not alone. The first time, it was emotional to see all the people and their support. My family and friends back home wished they could be there. I now have some friends here, and they joined me. They all fell in love with it, especially knowing someone who went through all that. You are giving someone else the same chance. You know when you see a gold lantern - it is so emotional.

I feel Canadians should support the blood cancer community through Light The Night because you are supporting clinical trials and research - you are giving people a chance! I received my treatment because, before that, there was a research team creating the protocols to fight the disease. Because of them, I received something amazing that allowed me to continue with my life. You are making a difference in the lives of people going through the most challenging times.