Randy Dittmar has a story to tell. A true life story of a journey as he walked alongside his wife, Joanne, while she battled a rare form of breast cancer. Joanne was the love of his life, his soul mate, and her diagnosis of inflammatory breast cancer resulted in a five-and-one-half-year journey.
Her prognosis upon diagnosis in 1994 was a slim one in 20 chance of surviving the first year. The couple were determined to be that one.
"It was my disease as much as it was hers," commented Dittmar with tear-filled eyes during an interview as he recollects the journey the couple walked together before the disease took his wife. "We were a united couple in one brave front to fight such a dreaded disease," writes Randy.
Randy kept a handwritten journal of the days that unfolded into weeks, months and years, documenting the conversations, treatments, medicinal therapy, reactions and both the progressive and regressive moments. Randy successfully captures the emotions of both the triumphs and disillusionments that came with vigorous radiation and chemotherapy treatments.
Prior to Joanne's passing in 1999, Randy had already written half the book. He shared it with her and received her blessing to share their story with readers.
Randy felt the time was right to compile a manuscript and self-publish his book entitled Supporting Your Mate Through Breast Cancer. It's a compelling story of friendship, love, courage and faith that takes the reader from the day of diagnosis right up to the condolences. It's a unique book telling an inspirational story from the supporting partner's perspective, a husband's viewpoint. Much has been captivated and written about first-hand patient experiences but not much from the perspective of the caregiver.
The 176-page book, although written from a technical standpoint, is a palatable read. The manuscript is done and now Randy is seeking financial sponsorship to assist with the printing and publication. Anyone wishing to assist financially can contact Randy at [email protected].
Another milestone for Randy was being honoured as a recipient of the Queen's Jubilee Medal for his efforts and volunteerism with the Saskatoon Parkinson's Association. Battling the effects of Parkinson's, Randy has acted as chairperson for the Saskatoon Parkinson's support group for four years, effectively guiding the many volunteers in numerous fundraising and educational events.
The debilitating disease has drained him of his independence and, too often, he reflects on the effects stress can have on one's health and life.
He currently serves as a director for Parkinson Society Saskatchewan.
Although Randy has faced much adversity, he still remains active with the Parkinson's society. He promotes good health and firmly believes exercising is the key to staying fit and mobile. His attitude remains positive and uplifting as he spreads encouragement and inspiration to those he meets.
April is designated as Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month and Parkinson's organizations across the globe raise awareness of this progressive brain disorder that affects over 100,000 Canadians.
