Family Picnic early August 2011

Photos of Pansy Mar

Memories of Mom's Final Year

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May 2, 1935 - October 25, 2011

Pansy was diagnosed with Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma in August 2008. She had developed the indolent slow growing version of this marginal zone blood cancer and began an unrelenting and courageous three year battle that included 18 separate cycles of chemotherapy, numerous blood transfusions, bone marrow biopsies and a spleen removal.

Through it all she maintained a positive 'can do' attitude by finding creative ways to cope with her disease. When she was well enough she enjoyed outings with her sisters to local casinos, dinners out and extended family get-togethers. She also loved hosting family dinners for her daughters and grandchildren whenever possible. Pansy adored her 4 grandchildren and attended their many extracurricular activities to cheer them on. Even flying across the country for a ballet performance. Her greatest hope was to live to see each of them happily married.

She continued to care for her husband of 50+ years as Victor struggled with end stage COPD -chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema) until his hospitalization and death in August 2010. Immediately after Victor's passing Pansy's cancer transformed into a more aggressive form of large T-cell lymphoma further complicated by autoimmune hemolytic anemia. However she had complete confidence in the care and treatment given by Dr Joseph Connors- a world leading lymphoid cancer expert and his team of oncologists at the BC Cancer Agency (BCCA).

Over time Pansy's body couldn't keep up with the constant breakdown of red blood cells. She faced this reality with grace and acceptance. Methodical and pragmatic, she took the necessary steps for the final journey of her life. She locked up her Vancouver home and moved to Marion Hospice in August 2011. Without the daily household duties, Pansy was able to finally devote time to herself. The hospice team was attentive and caring, the environment perfect for rest and life reflection.

She felt she had made the right choice. During her final two months she enjoyed comfort and peace surrounded by the support of her loving family. They spent lighthearted days together, joking and reminiscing about their favorite memories. Her cheerful spirit and charming nature even drew the staff to frequently visit. After 4 remarkably strong weeks she declined quickly. Sadly on Tuesday October 25, 2011 at 10:50 pm she lost her battle with cancer, dying peacefully with her family by her side. She was satisfied that she had fulfilled her life's purpose by giving her best to her children.

Pansy was a generous giver. She was touched by the outpouring of loving care she received from her family and friends in these final years. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Pansy would be grateful for donations of any amount to Dr. Connors Lymphoma Research (you may donate online here or call BCCA at 604.877.6040 and request Fund NSA08039) as her wish is to stop this disease from claiming more lives. At Pansy’s request, a private service was held with her immediate family. You can read her obituary at http://tinyurl.com/6q8qxrb and click on Memories of mom's final year above. We thank you for your ongoing love and support during this difficult time.