Julie Jewett, a resident of Nepean, Ont., shares her personal journey. For more stories like this, visit CBC’s First Person FAQ.
While socializing in the church lobby one Sunday after service, a parishioner made a remark about Lily’s striking resemblance to her grandmother, Debbie. This wasn’t the first time such a comment had been made. Both Lily and Debbie share similar features like light wavy hair and radiant smiles that brighten any room. There’s a special connection between Lily and her nana, demonstrating the unique bond often found between grandparents and grandchildren, even without a biological link.
Debbie, not related to Lily, entered their lives a few years after Julie and her husband relocated to Ottawa due to her new job in the federal public service. Lily, born in June 2017 after a prolonged wait following miscarriages, brought immense joy initially. However, their happiness turned to despair when Lily was diagnosed with a brain tumor just four months later. This marked the start of a grueling battle against the disease.
Debbie, who was nearing retirement and had no grandchildren of her own, extended her support to Lily during her hospital stays in various cities for treatment. Despite the challenges of witnessing Lily’s medical procedures, Julie found solace in knowing that Lily had Debbie as her pillar of strength. Debbie’s assistance allowed Julie and her husband to take breaks from caregiving, thanks to a combination of government support and personal contributions.
Lily, now six years old, has faced numerous health struggles, including a stroke, vision loss, and seizures. Despite these challenges, a transformative surgery called a hemispherectomy has improved her condition. Lily, with one functional brain hemisphere, is thriving in school, showcasing resilience and determination in her academic pursuits. Her bond with nana Debbie remains strong, filled with shared moments of laughter, songs, and walks.
The support from Debbie has been a lifeline for Julie, especially during the overwhelming responsibility of round-the-clock care for Lily. With the arrival of their second child, Grace, Julie and her husband have found moments of joy and normalcy amidst the chaos of medical treatments and caregiving. Lily has embraced her role as a big sister, sharing her love and affection not only with Grace but also with her adopted nana, forging a heartwarming family bond.
Through the darkest times, the unwavering love and support from Debbie have been a beacon of hope for the Jewett family. Witnessing the deep connection between Lily and her nana has been a source of healing amid the pain of Lily’s illness. In the midst of tragedy, they have discovered a profound beauty in the bond they share, reminding them of the power of choice and the blessings that come from unexpected connections.
Do you have a personal story that could inspire or support others? Share it with us. Learn more about contributing to CBC’s First Person stories.