Bruce Lessor's Journey

September 3rd on Top of the World for Bruce

2010-09-13T17:41:00.000-07:00

Bruce is now where he asked to be left. Now that we have been there, I understand why he picked this place. It's called Top of the World located in the Purcell mountains.
The day was perfect. Blue skys, calm winds and beautiful early evening light and great company of close friends. Emilie and I picked out spot and threw Bruce's ashes screaming "we love you daddy!".
Then we spent the next hour sharing this wonderful moment, enjoying the view and having a fine drink of scotch.
It feels good to fulfill Bruce's wish. Onward & forward / LIFE IS GOOD!

Remering Bruce / One year ago today

2010-08-17T08:01:00.000-07:00

One year ago today, Bruce passed away leaving us with beautifull memories to cherish. Bruce touched our hearts, making us smile when thinking of times we spent together.
My sweatheart, you were given your wings to fly away to soon and we do miss you tremendously. Your girls are going great. Emilie would make you proud. Thinking of you today, honoring your memories from the summit of your favorite ski area
You are in our hearts and soul, part of who we are forever. Love you man!
M.F. & Emilie

Bruce's ashes /Lake Louise

2010-03-29T19:35:00.001-07:00

It was only wright to be honoring Bruce where he skied most of life. Lake Louise will miss Bruce...Lining up on top of Whitehorn ridge/second gate, the sky started clearing. We cheered Bruce down the ridge and skied away. When having a great day skiing at the Lake, Bruce had the habit of visiting the "Table" through out the day. It was only right to honor this area with some of Bruce's ashes. So now there is a couple places you can go say Hi to Bruce. Thank you so much to all of you present skiing for him. It was a memorable day.

Lastly, we will be spreading the main body of Bruce's ashes, this comind Thursday (weather permitting). Emilie and I. will take a helicopter flight to a mountain top in the Purcels called "Top of the World). Bruce's remains will be spread where he wanted to be...in the mountains.
M.F.

Spreading of Bruce's ashes at Lake Louise

2010-03-21T11:40:00.000-07:00

Friday March 26th there will be another spreading of Bruce's ashes at a hill he skied at for many years, Lake Louise.
Meeting at 1pm at the TOP of the summit platter. Afterwards we will meet for drinks at the Powder Keg at 3pm.
Hope to see you there.

Spreading ashes on Kicking Horse

2010-03-11T19:54:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday, March 6th, on what would have been Bruce's 51st birthday, 51 of our friends lined up on the ridge above Feuz bowl to spread Bruce's ashes on the ski slope that he skied his last powder runs. It was under a blue sky that brought friends together in celebration to honour Bruce's life. Bruce's spirit was very present. We could all feel his energy skiing with us as we were fulfilling on his wish. Loud cheers filled Eagle's Eye patio on the mountain top gathering friends from all over.
A big thank you to all of you for attending this wonderful celebration; to Mark Groehl and Bill Marsh as they took unforgetable footage of the day. For those of you who could not attend, there will some images and video posted on the blog shortly.
As Bruce would say; "Best f..ing day ever!"
We love you man. Forever in our memories.

Bruce's ashes ceremony update

2010-02-25T20:28:00.000-08:00

Well, Bruce knows to gather a good crowd.
Saturday, March 6th, together we will spread Bruce's ashes. It will be a ski day in honor of Bruces spirit.
Here is the day's itinerary;
10:30AM meet at the base of the gondola, between the Catamount chair and the gondola, for a ski with M.F.
1:00PM meet at the top of the Gondola. I will then take you to "Mustang Sally" Bruce's designated chute, where we will line up to spread Bruce's ashes and a then have a good ski down in his honour.
Kicking Horse resort has offered a special discounted rate for both the ski lift ticket and the sightseeing ticket (for the non skiers) those of you who will join us at Eagle's Eye only for the Apres.
We will then meet at Eagle's Eye from 3-5PM for an Apres Celebration. No defined dinner plans yet.

I hope to see you all there and I can guarantee you one thing; It will be the best day ever! M.F.

Bruce's ashes day.

2010-01-14T06:55:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,
During the last week of Bruce's life with us, he described with great details, how he wanted his ashes spread. A few days before Bruce went to the Calgary hospital, a snow storm had brought a great accumulation of snow. A member of the ski patrol gave Bruce a little wink and dropped the rope for him. Bruce skied a chute called Mustang Sally where he left his tracks in the powder. He went back 3 times and skied the same chute because it was so good. He talked about his tracks proudly.

On Saturday, March 6th (Bruce's birthday)we will be spreading Bruce's ashes in Feuz Bowl from the top of Mustang Sally, leaving our own tracks in the same slope. It will be a ski day that we will put on video. The day will follow with a celebration. More details will come.

The Lessor family is doing well. As each day passes Emilie and I always talk about daddy. We honor him with our thoughts, ask him for guidance and protection. Bruce is with us no doubt.

Keep it between the trees!
M.F.

Bruce in POWDER magazine again

2009-11-17T08:05:00.000-08:00

I can't describe the emotions felt after finding out that an article honouring Bruce's passing away, was published in Powder magazine.
On page 117 of the December issue, "Letter of the Month", writes about the lost of Shane McConkey in relations to Bruce's. It is a letter beautify written. I sincerely want to thank Steve Crow (the author) for taking the time to honour a friend. Bruce was the best of best friends. Here is the link to the article in POWDER. http://www.zinio.com/reader.jsp?issue=416104749&o=int&prev=sub
Bruce is in Powder again never to be forgotten. What an honour! I am overwhelmed with emotions.
Stay in touch everyone. M.F.

Staying connected

2009-11-13T18:46:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Emilie and I really want to stay conntected to all of you. ALthough the blog will continue I find that Facebook has been a great way to also stay connected. Please find me on Facebook. Just search Marie-France Lessor and send me a 'friend request'.
On my Facebook page I have lots of updates.
Looking forward to hearing from you all.
M.F. and Emilie :)

Thank you

2009-09-04T10:14:00.000-07:00

Dear friends,
Bruce's memorial was a great success. I can honestly say that Bruce's wish was honoured completely. Everything was perfect.
I would like to thank the Norquay staff who donated their tips, Dave Foley who kindly provided the venue and donated all profits to Emilie's scholarship fund which totalled close to $5000. Emilie's funds have reached over $13,000. Thank you so much for this kind generosity.

Bruce's ashes will be spread at the top of a Mountain (called Top of the World) in the Purcell Mountains this fall. We will also have a gathering this coming winter, where we will be spreading Bruce's ashes on Redemption ridge (at KHMR)down a run name "Mustang Sally" into Feuz Bowl, where Bruce skied his last powder runs. Lastly, Kicking Horse will have a ski run named after Bruce. "Lessor's Leap" is a micro chute, on Terminator Ridge and will be baptized has soon as snow accumulation permits.

Our B&B will reopen this coming December with the help and support of close friends. Life is a gift and I intend to treat it as such and continue to honour Bruce's inspiration by living in the moment with passion every day.
When someone becomes a memory, memories turn into treasures. Remember the infinity symbol, as this treasure will remain within all of us forever.

I would like to encourage all of you to write letters to Emilie about her father. This can be done at any time and for years to come. Remember that this blog will carry on and provide you with updates on the Lessor family.
I wish there was a stronger word, but a big thank you to all of you. Your support is appreciated.
Marie-France

Bruce Lessor Memorial Part 1 from Steve Crowe on Vimeo.

Bruce Lessor Memorial Part 2 from Steve Crowe on Vimeo.

Bruce Lessor Memorial Part 3 from Steve Crowe on Vimeo.

Bruce's Slideshow

2009-08-30T21:27:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who sent us photos. There were some truly wonderful photos and we tried to get them all in. We will be sending all the photos along to M.F. and Bruce's family. Bill
http://www.billmarshphotography.com/billsfolder/BruceMem/SLD/

Memorial Saturday...Presentations will start at 3pm

2009-08-26T21:42:00.000-07:00

We are opening the doors at the Norquay Lodge at 2pm.
The presentations will start at 3pm. Good stuff happening so try and be there by 3.
Cash bar and appetizers too! Ends at 5pm.
The party will continue on at Wild Bill's around 9pm.
They are offering us 'Lessor' prices for beer!
If you would like to write a letter to Emilie about her father or just a letter to Emilie, please bring it on that day as there will also be a donation box set-up for the scholarship fund.
See you all Saturday !
Any questions, give me a call: Beth 403-760-9270 ;)

Don't Forget! If you have pictures of Bruce, please send them to Bill at bill@billmarshphotography.com before Friday evening.

Bruce's Memorial August 29th - Norquay Lodge

2009-08-18T14:15:00.001-07:00

We are going to have the memorial for Bruce at Banff Mt Norquay Lodge, Saturday August 29th 2pm - 5pm
If you would like to write a letter to Emilie regarding fun positive stories about her father please mail letter to the address below.
In lieu of flowers a scholarship fund will be set up for Emilie. If you would like to contribute please make cheques payable to Sunlife (Emilie Lessor) and send to Marie-France Lessor 1306 Selkirk Dr, Golden BC V0A 1H6
If you require any other information please contact Beth 403-760-9270 or email: beth.cairns@shaw.ca

A CALL FOR PHOTOS:
I am collecting photos of Bruce's life for a slideshow to show at the memorial and post on the blog. Please email me 2 or 3 images in a digital format. For those of you with film format photos - your local film lab or Staples can scan and convert them to jpegs.
Email them to: bill@billmarshphotography.com

Sad News

2009-08-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

It is with tremendous sorrow that we inform you that our dear friend Bruce passed away this morning, August 17, 2009 at 11:15.

His last week was spent visiting friends and family and spending time with M.F and Emilie. He was with friends and Marie-France at the end.

His journey through this life is complete - but he will live on in our hearts.

Details of the memorial to follow.

Thank you Bruce. We love you.

News from M.F.

2009-08-09T11:09:00.000-07:00

M.F. has asked us to pass this on to you all. Unfortunately Bruce has been readmitted to the hospital with internal bleeding. The doctors are saying that the disease has progressed to a point where Bruce’s body and the doctors can no longer keep up. It is likely that this will be Bruce’s last week.

Bruce is spending these last few days with M.F. and Emilie. As such, she has asked that we limit phone calls and visitors.

If you would like more information or would like to pass anything on, you can call:
Bill at 403.762.3209 /403.862.0339 or Beth at 403.760.9270.

You can also post your comments on this blog. We will try to keep you updated as often as possible.

Bruce wanted everyone to know that he has had a great life! He has lived strong. He has lived, laughed, skied and loved. He has the business, the wife and the daughter of his dreams. He has done so much – loved his days heli-skiing and being with friends. Loved his days at the B & B and loved the time he spent with MF and Emilie.

He also thinks this sucks!

He is spending time right now with Emilie – they have had some wonderful conversations over the past day or two. M.F. spent the night with Bruce in the hospital and they are heading towards this together as a family.

Bruce wants everyone to know how much he loves them.

We love you Bruce.

Bill

Home sweet home

2009-08-02T08:59:00.001-07:00

Life at home is most definitely a positive. If you ask Bruce, he will tell you that he feels much better since he is home. Looking at the pictures you can see that the boys have taken Bruce out for a ride in the convertible and had a blast with the boys! This is what we need to focus on. Good times! The cancer thing is no longer part of our conversations. We focus on recovery and quality of life. We live every moment to the fullest the best way we can.
Bruce has the start of a pneumonia and for this reason, we do have to limit the amount of visitors. This is a time for Bruce to enjoy his home and his girls.
As the journey continues, I will ask all of you to stay positive. Bruce will stick around. He is walking, putsing around the house, eating good food with appetite and hopefully will get stronger every day.
LIVE STRONG!

Chin up people!

2009-07-26T10:53:00.001-07:00

Since the last posting, we have received many messages of deep heart felt wishes. I very much appreciate all communications from all of you.
You should all know that we are not giving up. There are other alternatives i.e. nutrition, reflexology, healing touch, chinese medecine. We have received so many options and I am looking into it. Many positives things have happened since we came home and our spirits are strong.
Bruce is looked after with blood transfusion regulary from the Golden hospital. We are well supported. You will see how amazing things can change when you are in the mountains with your loved ones.
We beleive and we have hope. So chin up people and stay positive.
M.F.

Coming home...

2009-07-23T06:45:00.000-07:00

This pas Monday, we received the results of the last Thursday's biopsy. The results showed that the cancer cells have come back with 3 times the forces they first were. The cancer has invaded the bone marrow and into the blood stream.
Last Monday night Bruce started to get sick to his stomach and was found to have internal bleeding he was then re-administered to ward 57 at the hospital. Bruce is being treated to get this bleeding under control. Bruce's wish was to come home and be with his family. Today Bruce will be transported by ambulance to the Golden hospital where he will be taken care of. Depending on the status of the bleeding, we hope he will then be able to spend some time in his home, with Emilie and I.
Although this is a period of great sadness, we will be closing the B&B so that we can live this period with privacy and to be able to welcome friends and family into our home.
Love you man. Love you forever.
M.F.
UPDATE 'Coming Home'
Beth here, updating the blog. Bruce's bleeding is under control and he looks and feels GREAT !!!!
We are just waiting for the ambulance transfer from Calgary to Golden.
Bruce will be transfered to the hospital in Golden with the aim of having him at home very soon to be with his girls.

Keep your fingers crossed.

2009-07-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

The last couple of weeks have been fairly stable. Bruce is getting hydrated, gets minerals he's missing and blood transfusions on a regular basis. They are making sure they are keeping him strong.
I did have a conversation with the heamatologist in charge, and he explained that by removing this anti rejection drug, and boosting Bruce's immune system, Bruce will hopefully win the race against the leukemia. It is then only up to Bruce. Keep your fingers crossed.
Bruce had another bone marrow biopsy today and the docs were very happy of the sample they obtained. In a week, with these results we should know where we stand.
I have decided to take a leave of abscense from work and spend this time with Bruce and Emilie. The three of us together should bring the spirits up and get Bruce some good intertainment 24-7. My hopes are, that we get on the right track to get Bruce back home in Golden as soon as possible.
Keep in touch. and keep visiting, calling , emailing 403-944-4474.
M.F.

Bruce's Goddamn Deck

2009-07-04T06:16:00.001-07:00

Well Bruce, here is some quality family entertainment to help you wile away the hours. Soon we'll be having BBQs on this bad boy. Enjoy!

Bruce's Goddamn Deck from Steve Crowe on Vimeo.

Bruce out for a BBQ and overnight

2009-07-02T21:27:00.000-07:00

Some quality family time, sure is good for the soul. Emilie showed off her biking skills to her dad.

The best thing was, that Bruce had an overnight in Canmore with MF and Emilie. It was just awesome. Bruce was so stoked to be socialising with friends back in the mountains. It was his first time in four months he was seeing the mountains from up close again. We had a great time. We drove back to Calgary the next day all stoked from the fun we had the night before.

Doctors update:

The last biopsy revealed traces of leukemia lleft ingering in the bone marrow.

They have removed the Cyclosporin drug completely, which is the antirejection drug. This will allow Bruce to fight those cancer cells away. I will keep you updated as we go along. Spirits are strong.

M.F.

Biopsy results

2009-06-25T16:03:00.000-07:00

The results from the Monday's biopsy came in sooner then anticipated.
The biopsy results showed a trace of leukemia lingering in the bone marrow. To address this matter, the hematologist are adjusting the medication accordingly. In the mean time, Bruce will get a blood transfusion tomorrow, which will bring his blood counts back up temporarely. His energy levels will get better as well as his spirits. That seems to going hand in hand for Bruce.
The doctors are certainly on top of it, and Bruce will now be followed even closer going to the Tom Baker Cancer Center up to 3 times a week until further notice.
I will keep you posted.
M.F.

Blood counts are down. Up & down we go.

2009-06-23T11:43:00.000-07:00

The roller coaster ride continues.
Bruce's blood counts were down last week. So to address the situation, they removed one of the medication that Bruce was taking, in thinking that this particular medication was the contributor to the blood counts lowering. Yesterday, as Bruce went for his appointment, they saw that the blood counts had gone down considerably (platelets specifically)and proceeded to administer another bone marrow biopsy. (Bruce went through 4 biopsies). Now we wait...again...The results should be in by next Monday.
In trying to keep our spirits up, the nurse did let us know that they have seen this before and that is most likely a medication adjustment. As this was the procedure to the diagnose, Bruce and I are a little scared having been there recently. It just brings back memories we would rather forget.
We are doing our best to keep the spirits up and positive. Up and down, and up we will go.
M.F.

Life is getting better every day.

2009-06-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

As you all know Bruce checked out of the hospital on May 30th, 2 weeks after the bone marrow transplant. Living in the appartment has been very beneficial and Bruce's blood counts have all gone up, showing that the new stem cells are doing their job! The doctors are not claiming victory yet, but are very positive of Bruce's progress.

Bruce has been well taken care of, in the company of friends and family. Although scheduling caregivers is at times challenging, we are getting it done thanks to your cooperation. Bruce has been taking walks and discovering Calgary. Especially the bike shops...As he purchased a brand new carbon fiber x-country mountain bike, with all XTR components! He had me falling off my chair when he told me about it, but the excitement in his voice well justified the purchase. Emilie and I will be visiting this weekend and I will update you then. Cheers. M.F.

2009-06-02T20:02:00.000-07:00

Okay Bruce, the deck is ready for your fattening ass to sit upon it.

I'm going to post a video some day, but in the meantime here is a list of the people who volunteered their time for you. You are required to drink a minimum of one beer with each of them on your deck. Except for the first, they are in no particular order and I'm sure I'll miss a few.

George (General Contractor, General Mayhem Maestro), Randy, Ryan, Ruby (ok, that alliteration was deliberate), Brian, Chris, Christina, Monica, Cat, Jane, Colin, Joel, Nate, Dean, Andrew, Fiona, T-Bone, Scott, Dani and his buddy Kyle, Ji Hyo, Mag and Steve.

Crowe

Hey, heard you were cruisin' Kensington Ave. Lookin' to score? Don't they put enough drugs into you already?

Vandals Make Amends in Golden

2009-06-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

Waking up to vicious bouts of guilt-racked nausea after their weekend of demented wickedness, the delinquents who destroyed Bruce's totally shitty deck returned, heads held low, to make amends. And because of the promise of beer and stuff.

So the rowdies came rolling back in, determined to make right in Bruce's eyes, cutting, stapling, screwing, drilling, sawing, nailing, carrying, pulling, hauling, banging, dropping, fucking up, fixing, drinking, the other kind of drinking, eating, laughing, learning, filling the karma bucket.It is this close to being finished (if you could see me, my fingers are this far apart). Which is good, because Auberge Kicking Horse is this close to getting its first clients of the season. You should bring some friends to come stay and spill a drink on the new deck. Final photos to follow. Here're some teasers.

Crowe

Checking out of the hospital.

2009-05-29T20:53:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,
Well, looks like the new stem cells are keeping up their good work. Today was a big day. I moved out of the hospital and in an apartment across from the hospital. This is the first step in the right direction. Tonight I got to to have a home cook meal with my girls. Sure feels nice. We are still a long ways from going home, but little steps will get us there. Thanks to Beth and Lisa, their help was crucial in helping me moving into my new quaters.
So here is how you can find me;
Foothills hospital, South Tower, apartment #1404 (top floor! 14th floor!).
Phone #403-944-4474 cell#250-344-1109/
As I will need someone to look over me 24-7, I have a variaty of friends who have volonteered to keep me company for the first week. If you are interested to be on the list of caregivers, call M.F. and she will schedule you in.
I will keep you posted on the news.
Bruce.

2009-05-26T14:54:00.000-07:00

Well hello sports fans I was in a slump like the jays but back again. I move into the apartment on friday , my first step towards real life again. I can have the girls come visit and cook again and thats on the stove for all those twisted minds I so much miss. The rest will come in time , some thing I seem to have my fair share off. I was looking at the tape from the party there was a lot of love in that room , thanks Mark for making it feel like Iwas there, Iwish. The docs are saying good thinks about my healing but told me to keep it in check , maybe I can put my bike and trainer in the apartment, just kidding, not. Anyways Sept. is still my goal for kicking it in Golden again and sitting by the fire with all those great neighbors that we are so lucky to have. Thanks you guys. Remember keep your tool in your belt unless you intend on making good use of it.

Caregivers help for Bruce

2009-05-21T13:03:00.001-07:00

Bruce's blood counts have been going up consistently. White blood cells and platelets have been showing some positve counts. Hemoglobin counts are dragging a bit, but does not seem to raise concern at this time.

With these good results, comes Bruce's discharge from the hospital. Bruce is scheduled to move in a 2 bedrm appartment located across from the Foothills hospital.

The supervision required is minimal. We need to make sure that he takes his medication, eat, walk and sleeps. It is mainly a precaution, should he faint, get sick or fall and hurts himself. He will be going to the hospital 3-4 days a week to get fluids, blood drawn and for the doctors to examine his progress.

For the first month i am looking for some help with overnights as well. He can not be left alone. i will be staying with him consistently 3 days per week.

So if you are going to Calgary and need a place to crash, why not combine it with a "Bruce visit"!

If you think you can help in any way, please contact me at aubergebnb@telus.net. or call at (w)250-439-5495 or (h)250-3443997.

I will also be hiring a caregiver, and I will put a schedule together. Hopefully we get this next task under control and get Bruce back in Golden by September! Thanks M.F.

Party town ward 57

2009-05-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

Well more great news, my white blood cells made a showing today, wich in my world is good. And then the doctors talk to me about me geting the apartment maybe as soon as in a week or two . Things are starting to look really good but I still miss my girls and being home. But I'm liking the light at the end of the tunnel . My brother sure gave me the good cells. Thanks my brother from the same mother. Any ways time to get back to the room for my 5pm hookup. When in trouble take air. Bruce

why I was smiling

2009-05-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

Well I hit day 14 a day ago and I had my first sign of numbers coming up , not the white blood cells but the platlets and plus I can get up and have energy so that is nice. So life is good right now and I loss my hair so be sure to wear sun glasses when you come see me. So life is good for the moment so remember carpadiem. Lunch is coming and I need a dose of blood. Keep it between the trees!Bruce

smiling in ward 57

2009-05-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

Bruce's Home Vandalized in Golden!

2009-05-11T10:04:00.000-07:00

A group of rowdy punk asses crept into Bruce's backyard for a day of mayhem and anarchy on Saturday. The hottub deck didn't stand a chance against their onslaught of complete insanity. Nihilism ruled the day as a furious chaos engulfed the once quiet and secretly rotting hottub support platform. Loud Antichrist music blared from demon speakers while empty beer cans were thrown haphazardly about, causing antisocial litter. Children were endangered at every point and those with flip flops were thrust through by the underfoot spears of Beelzebub. Sadistic laughter was heard echoing through the quivering treetops.
Details to follow...

Thanks,

Steve Crowe

$50,000 + and still counting!

2009-05-09T07:17:00.000-07:00

Bruce and I are very overwhelmed by the genorosity and the support of our friends, family and commnity has displayed.

The fundraiser was an UNbeleivable success and raised over $50,000.00.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It is amazing to witness how small mountain communities have come together in a time of need.

This journey has brought people together in more than one ways. Some of us have reconnected with friends we had lost track of. Even strangers have offered their support. I guess there is a lot of people out there, who need Bruce to show them where the powder staches are and the best lines to ski. We want Bruce back.

This amazing support has provided us with positive energy to conquer and win this journey. Can't wait to look back on this and realize the opportunities and the positive outcome it has brought our way.

At the moment I can tell you that these funds will go towards, the cost of the Bruce's appartment in Calgary, the care and the medication he will be on for the next couple of years. Pay the bills to allow us to continue running our B&B with hired help. Bruce is a handy man around the house and all of these skills are being replaced with hired help.

For lack of better word THANK YOU! Bruce, Emilie and I will be forever grateful.

M.F.

Lots of lov from ward 57

2009-05-06T14:39:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone it's me, i'm up . I'm having a hard time doing this so no checking my spelling. I just wanted to thank everyone for that unbeleivable showing of friendship . And what a wife I have; oh my god you , all of you have givin me the stenght to make sure I ski with everyone of you and of course have a beer. The next party will be at the kicking horse riping and then back to my house for beers. Beth and Higgy what can I say you guys throw a great party and you tell everyone that helped there will be some big hugs going on, just like the party there will be a lot of love in the room. So to get to whats going on , i'm at day 6 and the everything should kick in around day 14 and then thanks to your kindness I will rent a apartment with a care provider to take care of me full time. Again thanks to all the kind people we will be ok not looking for funds. Anyways keep the faith baby I,ll be back and Higgy you still ski like shit. lots of lov from ward 57 Bruce

T-SHIRTS AVAILABLE AGAIN !!!

2009-05-06T09:32:00.001-07:00

We are offering t-shirts to anyone that missed out the night of the event.
We have to come up with 12 minimum to do a run.
This is not to raise money.This is to cover the cost.
Lisa Grey so graciously donated the first run!!
$20 per shirt.
Available colours are PINK, BLUE, GREEN like the night of the event.
Sizes Small, Medium, Large, XLarge
If you are interested please CALL or EMAIL Beth or Higgy
beth@creativewoodart.com - 403.760.9270
higgy67@telus.net - 403.762.9382
We can process orders by credit card, cheque or cash.
We will leave this up for 3 weeks, so order now.
Thanks everyone, great successful night and we will have a total for you soon !!
Beth ;)

VIDEO from the night !

2009-05-01T13:48:00.000-07:00

Here is a video from Steve Crowe.
Don't forget to check out Bill's SLIDESHOW below this as well !!! Beth ;)

Bruce Lessor Benefit from Steve Crowe on Vimeo.

Pictures from ward 57 & fundraiser!

2009-04-30T22:53:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone... below is a slideshow that includes images from the ward, the benefit, as well as the stem stell transplant procedure and subsequent celebration.

I will add images as Bruce's journey progresses.

Click... enjoy... share....

Bill

http://www.billmarshphotography.com/billsfolder/bruceslide/SLD/

Heads up to all visitors!

2009-04-25T07:49:00.001-07:00

This Bruce's big week.
He is now on his 3rd day of chemo and he is getting bigger doses everyday, which weakens him very much. He says, it is the toughest thing he has ever gone through. He is scared and misses his family the most.
Although he does appreciate the visitor's company, I suggest that you either call or swing by the nurses desk before entering the room, to see if he can take visitors. If the phone doesn't get answered, it is most likely that he is not in good enough shape to talk.
Keep those positive thoughts going.
This is a rough ride.
M.F.

Together, we will win the cancer challenge

2009-04-21T11:27:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone it's time the to let good times roll . Wednesday, I start the pratice amount of chemo and then it will be full doses until the 30th. So when your at the party think of me doing striper moves on the dance floor by myself and M.F. smiling and saying "that's my hubby!".

Thanks to everyone for your help, joke's and support and we will ride again soon. lots of lov Bruce

Wild Bill's Legendary Saloon, Tuesday April 28th 6PM !

2009-04-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. We are getting closer to the big event. It's going to be an 'old' Banff Reunion :)
April 28th (Tuesday) at Wild Bill's Saloon, Banff. Silent Auction starts at 6pm and the Live Auction at 9pm. We have lots of great stuff for the auction. If you want to have a look at what we have so far (it's updated daily)....check out this site. http://brucelessorsfundraiser.wikispaces.com , so you can save your pennies and bid bid bid!!!
A reminder also, no kids at Wild Bill's !
MF will be there for the event.......give her big big hugs !
See you all soon, Cheers....Beth

ATTENTION.... Out Of Town Friends !!

2009-04-16T08:30:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone, after going back and forth with the bank, we decided not to do a special account set up. If you would like to contribute to the family, please make checks, certified checks or money orders.... payable to Marie-France Lessor and mail to me:
Beth Cairns
#4 Canyon Place
Canmore, AB
T1W 1G4
Thanks very much. Stay tuned for more postings. Especially after the Benefit Evening....we'll have video!
Beth ;)

Party time on ward 57

2009-04-10T15:41:00.000-07:00

Just woke up from a little nap , see i'm the same as always. We are just entering prep for the transplant , Monday starts with a two hour's party session with the dentest plus they will be checking every thing you could ever think of checking in the human body. I know you guys are wishing you could be here for the good time's. Had a little set back last week with sore ribs but back to normal. Went out side yesterday for a little walk, that was great,thanks Sue. Starting to fattin my self up so junk food is my friend get to have some great shakes with help from ben&jerry. So if you come and visit just mayby phone first. So keep the calls and visits coming they are great . The 26th on will be the final set up for the big day so send me your vibs Iwill be lisening ane Iwill hereyou. Lov you man Bruce

Bruce's Benefit Lodging deals

2009-04-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Marjorie Holland from the Mount Royal ,the offer below is extended to anyone who will require a hotel room for the night of Bruce's Benefit.

Should you require accommodation in Banff on April 28th the Mt. Royal Hotel has offered a great rate of $75.00/room/night. Please contact the Res. Manager directly - Adrienne Floyd at: 403-760-8550. Please make reference to the Bruce Lessor Fundraiser.

Fairmont Banff Springs -
Go to http://www.fairmont.com/ and use Promo Cold NFAF online booking ID 78386676

Best of Banff Hotel – Rates Vary depending on property
http://www.secure-res.com/res/vn3/mp-3.aspx?mpg=698&mps=banff&wtpid=1&culture=1&culturename=en-US
Promo Code: Family

Keep smiling. M.F.

ANOTHER DOSE OF AWESOME NEWS!!

2009-04-01T13:01:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone who is following Bruce through his rough journey. My name is Marcel and I have posted awesome news on here before and now I have some more for everyone!! Today my dad, Kelvin (Bruce's brother), got told the date for the transfusion to help Bruce get better. The date for the operation is set for April 30th! So my dad is going to get ready to suffer for himself ... haha no booze or beer for the month ... poor guy loves his beer ... HAHA!!! Well the test was all good and perfect so he will have to take the medicine to get his white blood cells to produce an over abundance and then they will be harvested and transferred to Bruce on the 30th. Well Bruce is now in the gate with everyone down the slope cheering him on. The gates are down and Bruce is on his way!! Well I am off for now but figured everyone could use another dose of AWESOME NEWS!!!

2009-03-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

Good morning to all on this sunny monday morning. So the docs came in this morning to let me know that tomorrrow they will set the date , I'm ready my brother is ready , special thanks to him and his family for all they are about to go though. Anyways had a great weekend got to see my girls this weekend witch was amazing . Emilie and Rily left me with some great art work wich i pind up on my walls. Plus I had a tone of other friends and family come see me , special thanks to Tracey for coming from van. for the visit. So my spirits are up I feel as good as I could feel and taping my ski in the gate ready to go. So when in doubt take air Bruce

AWESOME NEWS!!

2009-03-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Marcel Lessor and I am Bruce's nephew. Well I went to visit him last night and got to talk to him for a bit about what was going on and how he was holding up. He is still as high spirited as I remember and he got to meet my wife Nicole. But that is minor for why I am writing this!! Today my dad Kelvin Lessor, Bruce's older brother, got the best news in the world!! Today he was told that he is a perfect match for Bruce!!!!! So for all you following this I figured I would post and let everyone know this wonderful news and will hopefully lead Bruce into the starting gate for his downhill race to recovery!! Well I am off to get home for now but as I said, I was writing this to let Bruce's friends and family know that a match has been found and things should start to get better from here on in!!! Oh and they are doing one more test on my dad for other stuff but we do not think anything will come up from that, that will make him an incompatible donor!

GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!

2009-03-26T15:41:00.000-07:00

Great News Everyone!
Literally minutes ago, Linsday from the Bone Marrow Transplant Team, announced that we have a match! My brother Kelvin is a perfect match! The news couldn't have been delievered at a better time... M.F. is here, a number of friends, and Emilie will be here at any minute. We are thrilled. Apparently we will meet with the team and doctors next Tuesday to set a date and start the planning process. We will let you know more details as we learn them. We are so excited we just had to tell you right away!!!! Bruce & MF

Stay tunned for Royal Bank of Canada Account information !

2009-03-25T17:18:00.000-07:00

I will be setting up a special Bank Account on April 9th with RBC. Perhaps you're far away and can't make the event, but still would like to contribute.
This account must be closed winthin a month (tax free for the family)
The account information will be posted here, so stay tunned.
Thanks everyone.
Beth ;)

2009-03-24T16:28:00.000-07:00

Hello sports fans i thought i would drop you a line to tell you what Is going to happan in the next couple of days. There going to start Kemo on me sometime tonight, so it will bring all my count right down. The idea is that when my system starts to rise, they will add blood, add the two of them together, it might start some of my other cells , because everything is bad. So think of it as going to Mt . Everest.... They're trying to get my system ready for big Kemo. So wish me luck! Keep it between the trees Bruce!!!!!

2009-03-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone its me fresh out of bed. I had the best call yesterday it was from my 85 year old aunt asking what i was doingin the hospital anyways that started the best talk I hour talk of gigling and made me smile all day .keep the storys and smiles coming.lov you man Bruce

Benefit Evening in support of Bruce Lessor and Family

2009-03-20T09:41:00.000-07:00

Click on Image to Expand !

Avalanche Movie Co in Banff

2009-03-20T09:34:00.000-07:00

Avalanche Movie Co in Banff will be donating all the late fees collected during the next week to Bruce & MF. So, if your kid has racked up a big late fee on your account, now’s your chance to help out! Or, get down there & rent a movie, and, uh, keep it an extra day or two. Thanks from 'Avalanche Video'

Unit 57, Room #567 phone# 944-4646

2009-03-18T06:26:00.000-07:00

It was a long drive back to Calgary and affected Bruce a fair bit.
He now has the care he needs 24 hours a day. The drugs are making him comfortable and the nurses visit constantly. He had a cat scan yesterday, and we are waiting for the results.
We both are releived and feel it was the right decision to go back in the hospital.

You can call him, visit him and have a few laughs. The contact info is in the title of this posting. Please be sure to write your email in the title of your comments, this way I will be able to communicate with you personally.
Keep smiling. M.F.

Back to Calgary's Tom Baker Center, Monday, March 16th.

2009-03-15T22:06:00.001-07:00

This week was challenging.
The back pain got worse, and after some heavy coughing a pain on the side of the stomach appeared and Bruce coughed some blood. Bruce went for a blood transfusion on Friday at the Golden hospital. We were hoping that the new blood would provide some energy, but the discomforts of the back & side pain didn't help matters.

We were both worried. Sunday night our Golden doctor came by the house to examine Bruce and felt the side of his stomach where Bruce is feeling the pain. She expressed some definite concerns that Bruce could have some internal bleeding...
Bruce was scheduled for a follow up exam on Friday, but with the course of this past week's events, we are going back to Calgary tomorrow for a cat scan and some follow up examinations.

Regarding the process of the bone marrow matches, both Bruce's sister & brothers were contacted and went for a first set of tests. The % in bone marrow match with the siblings are 1 in 4. So hopefully we get a match.

Emilie is spending her 2 weeks of spring break with a variety of friends and is having a blast.
Thanks for the meal provisions this week, and the help with the B&B.

Bruce remains strong minded and positive. We want this bone marrow transplant to happen as quickly as possible. Let's get it done and lets get all better.

HOW to POST a COMMENT

2009-03-14T18:27:00.000-07:00

MF has asked that I offer some help to those who are not used to 'blogging'. This is what you should do.... When you want to post a comment, first click on the post TITLE you want to comment on. IE: Fast Tracking the Bone Marrow Transplant......scroll down the the POST box. You must choose a 'PROFILE' to post under. If you do not have an account with gmail/Live Journal..etc ....choose ANONYMOUS....BUT make sure you end your post with your NAME, otherwise they won't know who it came from.
Hope this helps!
Beth :)

Fast Tracking the Bone Marrow transplant

2009-03-11T12:22:00.000-07:00

As you all know Bruce has returned home last Saturday. We are happy to have him home. Emilie is so happy to have her dad home.

The car ride has affected him badly and his health has deteriorated.
On Monday evening Bruce had a fever of 102 (39.2 Celcius) and had to go the emergency at the Golden hospital, where he was given some fluids and intravenous antibiotic.
Yesterday morning, he was due back at the Golden hospital to get his blood levels checked. It turns out that his platelets (coagulante cells) were down to almost nothing. Normal levels are around 120, last week Bruce was at 22 and he went down to 4!
Bruce received a platelets transfusion and his now scheduled for a blood transfusion as well on Friday.

All this raised some serious concerns with Bruce's case and after speaking with the doctors and the bone marrow transplant coordinator, they have decided to push the process to find the doner as fast as possible. Many of you have mentioned the interest in being tested for a bone marrow match, and I appreciate your offers, but there is a process in place and many resources. The first step, is to test his sibblings. Bruce has 2 brothers and one sister. And the siblings information has been received.

Should there be any further changes in his condition, he will then take an ambulance ride back to the Tom Baker center.

I would like to thank everyone for your support. Special thanks to my Golden neighbours and friends who have delivered some wonderful meals. Thanks to Cat for the cleaning duties, Melissa for picking up my groceries, Jud and Kate who are the ball to do my recycling, Jane who has checked on Bruce and brought him to the hospital (as a nurse & a mom) your help and advice is precious. Leo. Katie, Andrew, Shannon, Trevor& Stacey, John & Darcy for the help with Emilie.
Beth, Lucie, Bill and Shauna for moral support. Big thanks to Bill for starting this blog.

Thank you, to all of you.
I will keep you posted.
M.F.

Bruce's DIAGNOSE

2009-03-08T12:50:00.001-07:00

Alright gang brace yourselves.

Bruce and I had a meeting with the specialist doctor at the Tom Baker Cancer center in Calgary yesterday. Bruce's bone marrow produces cells that are immature and in such amounts that it cloges the bone marrow keeping it from producing the proper cells. This is called "Myeloproliferative disorder. It is a type of blood cander it is also called Styelodysplasia. There is also a problem at the DNA level where Bruce's choromozomes have a variaty of counts and are out of wack.

So to resolve this condition Bruce will need a bone marrow transplant. Once we find a doner (through a sibling at first) a strong chemo treatment will be executed to wipe all of Bruce's old blood cells. The bone marrow transplant is not as invasive as you may think. It is done through IV from the doner to Bruce.

Once this is done, Bruce will need to find a place to stay within 40 minutes of the hospital in Calgary and have a care taker to ensure he is taking medecine and eating properly.

Bruce is home in Golden now and we have medication to boost his immune system to keep him safe from infections. We can expect the whole bone marrow doner process to take approximatly 2 months or more.

Keep smiling and think positive as we all know.

M.F.

Best Birthday party ever!

2009-03-07T10:47:00.000-08:00

Would like to start by saying a big thank you to everyone.
Yesterday afternoon, the doctors came in, as a surprise to me, they gave me a "get out of jail" free card and told me I could go to Banff for the night.

When we got to the Maple Leaf restaurant, MF and I were overwelmed with seeing the amount of old friends that were present. Friends had flown in from east and west of the country to attend the party. Lots of hugs and kisses, personally prefer the kisses...nothing against you boys. The girsl are just better looking.

The food at the Maple Leaf was amazing as usual. Big thank you to all those guys. It's great to have friends taking care of friends.

Back at the hospital. Today is the big day. Everbody, please keep your fingers crossed. We'll keep you posted. It doesn't really matter, the snow gods will keep me on the right track. Hope everybody is doing some turns for me.

Your hugs, smiles, laugh and giggles are always welcome and appreciated.
Keep it between the trees.
Bruce.

March 5 2009 comments from Ward 57

2009-03-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone...Bruce here.

Here's a good one for ya....Got on the bike trainer on the ward today...Thought 10 km would be fun...turned in to 15km....then 20...listen to the tunes I ski to...maybe 20km was...19km too much. Had a good lay down. Any surprises yet.
Woke to to a great call from Punker.
Punker told me some great story...how he went for a walk after his operation, one of the girls from his work visited him w/ his cathater on...very sexy...he was still groggy. She told him later he was showing everyone his ass and hoses...too funny.
Let's hope I don't have one of those grand moments.

Love the comments...remember no sad momments...I'm not sad.
Love the funny stories.
Remember my blood type is A POSITIVE.

A quote from Bouncy "Love ya man"

Thanks so much for all your love, support and comments...keep it all coming...Bruce

March 3 2008

2009-03-03T10:46:00.000-08:00

Hey guys...here is the first post. I have visited Bruce a few times and his spirits are of course great. Boredom can be a bit of an issue so please reply to this post as often as possible.
Bruce will be checking this daily.
Leave all your comments below.