We belonged together like peas and carrots.
Ian John Mason was my best friend and life partner. His infectious smile lit up the room. He was a proud son, brother, father and friend to many, especially his work mates at York Regional Police Services.
Ian was strong and healthy. He played golf, hockey and baseball – sometimes all three in one day.
He played in a band, loved trips on his Harley and loved his work. He was in his 30th year on the force, having followed his dream and joined when he was 22 years old.
We were strong, we were happy. We enjoyed everything together and travelled often, frequently visiting Ian’s brother and family in Florida.
Then everything changed.
I’m sharing my story with you because it’s important to me that our community understands that Margaret Bahen Hospice and Doane House Hospice provide critical support that will help you through one of the most difficult times in your life. Knowing what I now know, I refer to Margaret Bahen Hospice as the best place in the world you never want to go.
With support from people like you in this community, these two outstanding organizations are able to provide programs and services that would not otherwise be available to families like mine. I hope you will consider sending a special gift today to help them continue their important work.
Ian and I met through friends in 2003 and our friendship gradually grew into our wonderful partnership. In February 2019, upon our return from a trip to Florida, we both decided to lose some weight. Ian reached his goal weight before me – but then he just kept losing more. By September (two days before his eldest son’s wedding), with his family doctor having recently retired, and his weight loss continuing, he went to a walk-in clinic. From there, he was referred first to Southlake Hospital, then to Sunnybrook Hospital, then to St. Michael’s Hospital. The diagnosis was pancreatitis. We were told it would go away on its own. It didn’t.
The day after celebrating an early Christmas on December 7th with our extended family, Ian couldn’t stop vomiting. Ian was admitted to St. Michael’s Hospital where he spent the next 65 days undergoing tests and treatments. On January 14th, we received the devastating news that he had stage 4 pancreatic cancer which had metastasized to his liver. Ian decided it was time to go home to be with his friends and family.
Ian was strong – and a fighter. Read the full story.
Heartfelt thanks to The Lawrence Schafer Foundation who is matching all donations towards Michelle’s story until December 31st.*
Your gift can be doubled, make your donation by filling in the form below.
*Donations received on or before December 31st will be matched by The Lawrence Schafer Foundation up to a maximum of $50,000.