Della Ryan
Conception Bay South NL
Canada
Paul Davis Family and Friends
I was diagnosed in 2019 with Chronic Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The biggest challenge I’ve faced since then is being a single mom and knowing my kids were watching what I was going through and not being able to give them 100%.
My life has been changed since my diagnosis. Chemo changes your body. I’ve experienced different side effects, the short term memory loss was especially bad. I have much less energy than I used to and my physical appearance has changed too.
However, I believe we choose how to deal with things and I would rather focus on the positive. No matter what happens, I try to find a silver lining. My life motto has always been “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react”. That’s never been truer for me. I appreciate the littlest things in life now, like flowers, and going for drives. I’m thankful every day to be alive. When people say “I’m sorry” I say don’t be. Thanks to research and treatment advances, I’m alive. I don’t ever feel sorry for myself. My cup was always ½ full, but now its ¾ full.
I experienced every emotion possible throughout this journey. I cried, I laughed, I danced, I did it all. I saw family come together in a way I never thought possible. I heard from high school friends I haven’t spoken to in 25 years. I don’t wish this on anyone, it’s not a fun experience, but I've seen love, compassion, and true humanity from people I don’t even know and it's given me a new perspective on life.
Paul Davis is my neighbor, as well as a survivor and an LLSC volunteer. He was the first person I called when I was given my diagnosis. He took the time to talk to me and has been by my side ever since. I knew what to expect before I started treatment and I knew every nurse by name. I’m so lucky to have that kind of support. He also introduced me to my first Light The Night walk last year. It was heartwarming and fulfilling. It felt so good to be there holding that white lantern and feeling hopeful for the year ahead. I felt every person on the field that night was wrapping their arms around me. It was a night I’ll never forget. Light The Night is a way to remember those who have lost their battle and to support those like me who are still fighting.
If it wasn’t for the fundraising efforts of Light The Night, survival rates would be lower. There are discoveries being made every day to help people live longer and better. If I had CLL 20 years ago I probably wouldn’t be here today. Light The Night helped make that happen.