Martine Elias, Executive Director |
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Hi everyone,
There are only a few weeks left to 2021. When I look back at this year, it’s with a mix of emotions ranging from awe, frustration and anger to tremendous gratitude, hope and optimism. Over the past 12 months, we have all gone through so much. It’s been a seesaw of clarity and confusion, of highs and lows and in-betweens.
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But never, ever in this gamut of uncertainty did we give up. It’s simply not an option!
Not even with the devastating environmental events that have been sweeping our nation: heatwaves, raging wild-fires, droughts and floods in British Columbia, forest fires in Manitoba and northwestern Ontario, flooding in Alberta, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Quebec. It’s unfathomable. My heart goes out to all our fellow Canadians touched by these disasters… hopefully, you are all staying safe and strong.
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We’re making it through the 2nd year of living in a world-wide pandemic, of Delta and Omicron variants, double vaccinations and third booster shots, loosening and re-introduction of restrictions on in-person gatherings, fluctuating opening and closing of borders, the introduction of vaccine passports, all the while adapting to our new norm of Covid-19 testing, physical distancing, masking up, etc. |
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Is it hard? Absolutely. Does it get to me? Without a doubt. But I do my best to stay positive, focus on tomorrow, embrace each step forward with a full heart, and know that each little step back is temporary and necessary to keep us safe and ultimately move us in the right direction.
So, as we approach this holiday season and enjoy our much-needed visits with our families and friends, please remember to keep on protecting yourselves while you celebrate.
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Our world has become smaller yet ironically, more accessible through technologies like Zoom. Fundamental human rights issues regarding equity, inclusivity, diversity, and advocacy came out of the shadows and shared centre stage with the pandemic. Never before have communities come together to achieve so much.
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The international scientific community has collaboratively delivered safe and effective vaccines at unparalleled speeds; medical and services communities continue to sacrifice and go beyond their call of duty to help keep us physically and emotionally healthy; international and local communities have united to support one another. There simply are no words to express the depth of gratitude to all those who are doing whatever they can to keep us as safe, well and protected as possible.
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On December 5th, we honoured International Volunteers Day, a day when we reflect on the incredible members of our society who give of themselves for others. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, Myeloma Canada would not be where we are today without you, our remarkable family of volunteers. Your actions, no matter how large or small, touch the lives of thousands and make each day brighter. |
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Your dedication to making myeloma matter is the reason why 2021 was an exceptional year for Myeloma Canada. We soared to new heights and exceeded even our own expectations in our programming, research investments and fundraising as a direct result of you, your passion, commitment, and support.
If I may ride the tailcoat of our theme this year, you proved to yourselves – and the entire Canadian myeloma community – that YOU most certainly have the POWER to improve the lives of thousands living with this disease. 2021 was a record-breaking year for us because of you; we can’t wait to share the details with you in the new year.
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To you, our beloved community, I, along with our entire Myeloma Canada family – Aidan, Connor, Gabriele (Gabe), Jessy, Marcie, Michelle, Muriel, Patricia, and Shaneika – wish for you and those you hold dear, the very best of health, love, happiness, and peace this holiday season.
Whether you’ve already celebrated Chanukah or are looking forward to celebrating Christmas, Kwanzaa, Bdohi Day, Pancha Ganapati, HumanLight, Yalda, or simply the joy of being, please stay safe, stay well and stay warm!
Have a wonderful holiday season!
With love and gratitude,
Martine
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Thank you for your continued faith in all that we do.
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