🗓️ Week of September 8: Navigating Appointments & Emotions

Mood: Heavy. Grateful. Trying to stay present while everything shifts.

Medical Update: This week marked Chloë’s second “long” chemo of Cycle 1—another 3–5 day inpatient stay at CHEO. She was admitted Thursday and remained through the weekend while the chemo cleared her system. These longer sessions are physically demanding and emotionally draining, but the staff continue to be attentive and kind. We’re now in Week 6 of Cycle 1, with one more cycle to go before we pause and assess how things are progressing. If all goes well, we’ll move forward with surgery to remove the tumor.

Emotional Check-In: The emotional toll is starting to show. Chloë is missing out on so much—school, friends, routines—and it’s hitting her in waves. She’s been reflecting on what it means to be in Grade 11 but not physically present, and how that might affect graduating with her classmates. These thoughts are heavy, and they’re coming earlier than we expected. We’re doing our best to hold space for them while also encouraging her to stay connected to what’s possible.

Education Update: We continue to feel incredibly supported by her school team. Her Interlink nurse, guidance counsellor, and vice-principal have been working closely with us to make sure Chloë’s e-learning setup is manageable and meaningful. She’s now enrolled in two online courses for Semester 1, and her teachers have been updated. Everyone has shown such kindness and flexibility—it’s made a difficult transition feel less isolating.

Moments of Light: We were all home together on Labour Day, which felt like a gift. Chloë’s room at CHEO this week was quiet and private, allowing her to rest more easily. She’s been exploring wigs and hats that feel fun and expressive—small ways to reclaim control and feel more like herself. Charlotte is adjusting to Grade 3 and has been asking thoughtful questions about what’s happening with her sister. We’re grateful for the gentle support from her teachers and friends.

Reflections: This week reminded us that grief doesn’t always come with a single event—it builds slowly, in missed milestones and altered plans. But so does resilience. We’re learning to navigate both, one appointment, one conversation, one moment at a time.

💛 Much love,
Chloë’s Mom