Tribute

Tanja (Tatjana) also known as Tanya by her friends and colleagues died after a vigorous battle with breast cancer. She was a true warrior. Any “Klingon” would be proud. Tanja was diagnosed last July. Soon after, her father, who only a short time earlier moved back to Canada from Europe, suddenly passed away at her home. Several month’s prior, Tanja’s mother’s health condition deteriorated rapidly too. Tanja’s mother became blind and deaf as a result of previous head injuries. At that time, Tanja brought her mother to stay with her. After Tanja’s father’s death, her mother was transferred to an extended care hospital. Tanja’s only other sibling, her brother Tom (Thomas) lives in Vancouver and commuted the distance as often as he could. Tanja became bed stricken last winter. The cancer spread to her skeletal system and she suffered irreparable bone fractures up until the time of her death. Tanja received medical care at home during most of this time. Tanja loved animals and she was surrounded by pets all her life. Tanja could no longer take care of her beloved pets once she became bed stricken. Last January, most of her pets found foster homes through Saint’s Animal Rescue in Mission. Tanja’s friends and especially her neighbors, Carey and Amanda were extremely helpful in supporting Tanja when she needed assistance. Tanja felt she would never receive this kind of support in the “big city”. Tanja worked in the dentistry field and really enjoyed what she was doing. Since 2002, Tanja was employed with the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of British Columbia (UBC). She had a warm and caring relationship with the patients while at UBC and in private practice.  Sadly, Tanja never seemed to catch a break in her adult life. She encountered many roadblocks, obstacles, and challenges. Unfortunately, over time these negative circumstances took it's toll on her physically and mentally.  In early March, Tanja was transferred to Mission Memorial Hospital where she died in April with her mother and brother at her bedside. The rapid progression of the disease caught her family off guard. Tanja was in relatively good spirits up until a few days before she died despite  frequently have her lungs drained of fluid. Tanja had so many things that she wanted and needed to do before she died. Regrettably, God, time, fate, or “whatever” simply wouldn’t allow it. Tanja’s passion and perseverance will be sadly missed. On the positive, Tanja is finally at peace. Her spirit or energy shall live within those who she touched. In memory of Tanja, you may make a monetary donation to Saints Animal Rescue: http://www.saintsrescue.ca or to the charity of your choice.