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Name: Nicole Marie Westergaard Age: 17

Location: Mission, British Columbia

Type of Cancer: Chronic Myeloid Leukemia

The Story:

In the late summer of 1995, when I was 10 years old, I was diagnosed with Pneumonia and treated appropriately. My Pneumonia cleared but my bloodwork remained abnormal and I was referred to an Oncologist at BC's Children's Hospital. I felt well and everyone, especially myself, was shocked when a diagnosis of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia was made on November 2,1995.

Immediately following diagnosis, treatment began. I had to have daily injections of a medicine called Interferon, given either by my Mom or my Dad. The injections were to try to return my blood count to normal until the doctors could find a bone marrow match. The doctors had told us the only chance for a cure would be a bone marrow transplant.

I was extremely lucky because my Dad was found to be a complete bone marrow match. (My Mom & Dad say that we won the lottery that day) We were all very happy that we could now go ahead with the bone marrow transplant. (My little brother, Chris, was relieved actually, because we had told him that he would most likely be the match and he was really scared about donating bone marrow). The date was set for January 1996 but was cancelled because I got strep throat. My bone marrow transplant date was then delayed until March 1996.

After 6 days of chemotherapy & total body Irradiation my bone marrow transplant took place on the first day of Spring, March 20, 1996.

I stayed in hospital for 31 days, 18 of which were in isolation. Finally, I was allowed to go home, but had to come back frequently, sometimes, daily, into Children's Hospital for bloodwork, bone marrow samples and to see my doctor. By the end of the summer of 1996 my visits were less frequent and now, 7 years later, I see my Oncologist at Children's once every year!

Highlights:

One of the most memorable moments for me would have to be my wish to go and swim with dolphins. My family and I were flown to Florida, in March of 1997, where we stayed in Key Largo for 6 days. While we were there we spent 2 days swimming with the dolphins at Dolphins Plus and spent the rest of our time sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing. Afterwards, we drove up to Orlando and spent 2 days at Disney World trying out all the rides. This was, and will always be, one of my favourite memories and would never have happened if not for the generosity of the Make A Wish Foundation and those who sponsored me.

Lowlights:

The absolute lowest of lows during my time dealing with cancer was having to return to elementary school after my treatment was over and my immune system had returned to a safe level. I quickly found out who my true friends were and who, just simply, did not understand what I had gone through and what I was still going through. There were times when I was made fun of because I had really short hair and others just because I had had cancer. This was an extremely hard time for me but I got through with the support and encouragement of my family and close friends.

I am now 7, almost 8, years post bone marrow transplant and was recently told by my Oncologist that as far as he could tell, I am cured of the disease. Currently, I am finishing my grade 12 year of highschool and focusing on the coming challenge of College which I will be attending in the Fall.

Favourite Activities:

Some activities that I enjoy are spending time with my friends & family, camping, skiing and playing and listening to music.

Note from Nicole's Mom & Dad:

Nicole was amazing throughout her fight with cancer. She was extremely strong, never complained & never gave up. It was from Nicole that we drew our strength!! Nicole is truly an amazing young woman and may she have a long and healthy life! Thanks to everyone in the Coast to Coast Ride for taking on this fundraiser and remember... Nicole never gave up!