Amy Pulsifer

It started with a lump under my chin in February 2017. In hindsight, the symptoms were there for months but I brushed them off as signs of aging. I was in my late 40's so aches, pains, odd skin issues and shortness of breath were easy to justify. I hadn't had regular blood work done for several years so scrambled to find an unused requisition from my family doctor. A flurry of medical appointments and tests followed which confirmed my diagnosis: Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. My first blood transfusion was that weekend and chemo was scheduled to start in three weeks.

We hear all the heartwarming stories of patients who were supported by their loving spouses or partners but where were all the stories of the fabulous single people who took care of themselves? My family lived over an hour away and my circle of girlfriends was in PEI. I had great friends here in Halifax but I was still responsible for getting my groceries, shovelling snow, mowing grass and cooking. I had to clean up my own mess when the nausea struck. I went alone to my appointments from diagnosis to blood transfusions to chemo. When the fevers came, and they came often, I sat in emergency by myself. I had to carry the burden of worry on my shoulders during those terrifying moments when your temperature climbs and the rigors start. Just like all the other single patients.

Thankful for a job with a health plan, yet burdened with a nonexistent immune system, I was off work for a total of 15 months which at times was isolating, especially living alone. I made the most of my time off though and always maintained a positive outlook. The local café economy definitely grew during those 15 months! Unfortunately, after the fifth month of chemo, my body could take no more and my Hematologist cancelled my final round. I did not get to ring the bell. As disappointing and scary as that was, several months later, I still received the good news: "No evidence of disease". I was in remission.

My cancer is expected to return in 3 to 5 years at which point I get to do this all over again. I need a shorter recovery time and be able to return to work quickly or better yet, not have to leave work at all! I believe the funds raised through Light the Night will help fund the research necessary to allow me to do that. I don’t just want to survive next time, I want to LIVE!