Embracing 2024 with Positivity in Tough Times
As winter’s chill graces our faces, we’re taking a moment to reflect and share the latest chapters of our family’s story with you. This year has been an extraordinary mix of challenges and heartwarming support from our amazing community.
Our family’s routine now includes frequent visits to McMaster Children’s Hospital, where we’re tackling Alyce’s health challenges with newfound resilience. These corridors have become familiar paths in our journey. Despite the recent strains of understaffing at the hospital, we’re choosing to embrace the silver linings.
Alyce, our little warrior, is undergoing treatment and that process has been teaching us about true courage and resilience. Her remarkable spirit in facing these health hurdles is nothing less than inspiring. We’re learning so much about the complexities and the essential role of technology in healthcare. Every day brings new insights into how vital dedicated healthcare professionals are in keeping our world healthy and families together.
Our hearts are full of gratitude for the Ronald McDonald House Charities and their family rooms in the hospital. These oases have been our sanctuaries, offering respite and comfort. The volunteers, our unsung heroes, have provided invaluable support and kindness, lightening our hearts in challenging times.
We can’t thank our incredible friends – Aretha, Moe, Everton, Jim, and Arlene – enough for their visits filled with laughter, caring words, and Arlene’s unforgettable homemade treats and hearty meals. Your presence has been a beacon of strength and a vivid reminder of the power of community support.
Meanwhile, our furry family members have been enjoying their own escapade at their auntie’s house. We receive daily doses of laughter through videos of their ‘karaoke parties.’ These moments of joy have been a delightful reprieve from our hospital routines.
As we pen this newsletter and approach the new year, we’re filled with hope and a sense of optimism. Sharing Alyce’s journey with you and facing each challenge positively strengthens us, much like the boundless love of our playful pups.
We deeply appreciate every message, call, and thought you’ve shared with us. Your support has been a foundational pillar in our journey. We are immensely thankful to be surrounded by such a loving community.
Wishing everyone a serene holiday season and a fantastic start to 2024. We hope it brings health, joy, and treasured moments. We eagerly anticipate a year rich with love, laughter, and the cherished presence of friends and family.
With all our love and gratitude,
Damian, Karterina, Alyce, and our karaoke-loving furry companions 🐾