Kayla Maier

Team Osler (Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP)

I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) in 1998 when I was seven years old. I was treated at SickKids and went through three years of chemotherapy and had annual follow-ups until I turned 18.

My diagnosis and journey has affected me more now as an adult than it did when I was a patient. I was so young and had incredible support from my parents, extended family, doctors, and nurses. I have very few memories of feeling afraid – just needles, sometimes. I attribute that to my mom who never let the thought of a “worst-case scenario” permeate my childhood. As a survivor, I consider it both my duty and pleasure to participate in initiatives like Light the Night to raise funds to support the medical research community.

I first participated in Light the Night at University of Guelph, prior to working at Osler. The father of a friend-of-a-friend in one of my classes was battling blood cancer and she formed a LTN team which I joined. When I started at Osler 4 years ago, a colleague of mine asked if I would be interested in joining the team – as something very close to my heart, I was eager to continue my journey with LTN and the LLSC.

Working at Osler, I know that the firm already supports so many important causes in the community. So, it was very meaningful that I had the support of my colleagues for LTN. It is such a simple thing to do and we can make a difference in the lives of so many people. With just a small gift of our time, the fund-raising efforts and donations really addup, and the impact is life-changing and far-reaching. How could we not? Besides, the LLSC makes all the magic happen behind the scenes!

What are 3 words you would use to describe Light The Night?
Committed; Inspiring; Powerful

Do you have a message for the Blood Cancer Community?
Trust the process. Trust the doctors and professionals. Take it day by day.