Miranda Côté

Walk with a Lymph
 

I was diagnosed with stage IV of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma on October of 2016. The biggest challenge I faced in my blood cancer experience was the sudden change of plans. Since I was a child, I had more or less planned out my expectations for the future, so receiving a blood cancer diagnosis wasn’t really part of my plans so it shifted them completely. . It was quite a challenge to adapt to all of the changes, fast decisions and long-term effects of such a diagnosis. It was also such an opportunity as well though as it allowed me to see what truly matters in life. Life isn’t all about those perfect plans because let’s be honest, we all face obstacles and adversities in our life journeys, but how we adapt to them and grow as a stronger, kinder and more understanding and loving people is what matters.

I turned my own survivorship into a passion and met such so many, but also too many incredible young adults on different social media platforms who faced a similar adversity as me. So, I decided to create a team in order to increase awareness about blood cancers as they are the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada and they often affect children and young adults. So, I wanted to walk to support the current patients, the thrivers, caregivers and those who unfortunately lost their lives to a blood cancer.
I went through my treatments just over 3 years ago, and I cannot even begin to imagine how frightening these times of uncertainty are for you during your treatment. However, my words of advice would be that for the most part, the whole country is currently on hold and paused, so take this as an opportunity to focus on yourself and to take the time to take a break!!! Whether your support system is big or small, I cannot stress this enough, but reach out to those around you for support and help. I know it can be hard to reach out for help, but it’s OKAY to need help. Ask a family member, friend or neighbour to run errands for you, to do your groceries or to simply get you things to keep your mind occupied. Physical distancing is so challenging, but it is temporary and so are your treatments, so you can totally do this!

Canadians should support the blood cancer community through Light The Night as not only is it a fun, inspirational and unforgettable evening that you will want to make part of your family’s annual traditions, it also helps raise funds for blood cancer research and support programs for those affected by this adversity. With blood cancer representing almost 10% of all cancer diagnoses in Canada, I believe that it crucial for Canadians to support this community whether it be by donating, sharing the event page on social media, or attending the walk itself. Any type of support counts and makes a difference.