My mom, Debbie, was a beacon of strength and love—she was the kind of mom we all aspire to be. Even when she faced illness, she exemplified grace and courage, teaching me invaluable lessons about perseverance and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

In September 2021, we received the news that my mom was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of lymphoma. Despite the daunting challenges that lay ahead, my mom faced her illness with a remarkable sense of determination and optimism. She chose to receive care from William Osler Health System (Osler), where I have had the privilege of working as a critical care nurse for 11 years.

My mom underwent treatment, and her cancer was in remission by April 2022.

However, life is unpredictable, and just when we were getting back to normal, we found out that my mom had relapsed in August of the same year. This time, she faced more severe symptoms and side effects.

As one of her primary caregivers, I witnessed first hand the remarkable support provided by her oncology team at Osler. Nurses like Max, Mary, and Lyda went above and beyond to ensure my mom received the best possible care. Their compassion, expertise, and dedication made a lasting impact on our family. Throughout her time at Osler, she received personalized and compassionate care that eased her pain and brought comfort to our family during a difficult time.

In December, we said our final goodbyes to my mom, but her legacy of love and strength lives on in the hearts of those she touched. She was not just a mother to me, but also Nanny to eight grandchildren and a guiding light to my three siblings. Her spirit continues to inspire me every day, especially as I navigate the complexities of being a new mom.

As a nurse, I know that the physicians and staff at Osler cannot do what they do without the help of the community. Together, we can continue to uphold the legacy of compassionate care that Osler is known for, making a real difference in the lives of others.

Thank you for your continued generosity and support.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Ashley Tarasco-Oliver

Grateful daughter, Proud Osler Nurse and Donor