🗓️ Week of July 28: Processing & Planning

Mood: Still reeling. Trying to absorb the news. Grateful for clarity, but emotionally raw.

Medical Update: This was the week a biopsy confirmed our worst fears—it was definitely cancer, just as they suspected. Hearing the word “osteosarcoma” spoken with certainty was devastating, even though we’d been bracing ourselves. We met with oncology, orthopaedics, and other specialists to discuss staging scans and treatment options. The word itself became part of our vocabulary—something we never imagined needing to learn.

Emotional Check-In: Chloë was quiet but engaged. She asked hard questions, and we followed her lead. As parents, we tried to stay grounded, but the swirl of information and decisions was overwhelming. We leaned heavily on each other and on the medical team’s guidance. They have always made themselves available—no matter the time.

Education Update: [No formal update this week.]

Moments of Light: This was also the week leading up to our annual visit to a cottage we rent on Green Bay in Bob’s Lake—Chloë’s favourite place. Her focus was on being well enough to go, even with an air cast and a fresh incision from the biopsy. I think every member of the care team understood how important this trip was to her, and they did everything they could to make sure we could go, even for a little while. We also met more members of our support team, including social workers and child life specialists—roles I hadn’t heard of before. They’ve been a quiet source of comfort and reassurance, helping Chloë—and the rest of us—navigate difficult news and procedures with compassion and clarity. Messages and gift baskets of comfort items and treats from friends of Charlotte, Justin, and me—as well as immediate and extended family—began to pour in: notes of love, offers of help, and reminders that we weren’t alone.

Reflections: This week taught us that clarity doesn’t always bring comfort—but it does bring direction. We began to shift from shock to action, and that shift—however fragile—was a beginning.

💛 Much love,
Chloë’s Mom