Galloway, Melissa, Grace: Passed away peacefully on January 4th, 2012 at age 22.
Melissa entered into our lives challenged in so many ways. Being fully disabled didn’t stop her from enjoying life to the fullest of her capability. Melissa had beautiful blue eyes, a fantastic smile and a charming infectious giggle. Melissa used these to her advantage as she drew people into her life. Those who knew her best and gave from the heart were truly rewarded with her charm and grace. Smiles and giggles were frequently received by friends, family and caregivers who quickly learned Melissa’s preferences.
Despite being an outdoor girl trapped in an indoor body, she made frequent trips to various Regional Parks including memorable jaunts to Long Beach, Battleship Lake and Village Bay Lake as well as walks around the Campbell River loop. Melissa enjoyed the wind or rain and even snow on her face and any tree branch within reach provided her with endless enjoyment.
In later years, Melissa moved to Apple Gate Care Home and she fully embraced the love, support and care provided by Rebecca and her fantastic staff. She became part of an extended family and was treated as such by her caregivers.
Melissa faced many challenges and in 2005 she received life-altering spinal fusion surgery at Shriners hospital in Portland, Oregon. After untold delays in receiving this surgery closer to home, this very successful treatment greatly increased her quality of life. Sadly after a wonderful Christmas, Melissa mounted a short but hard fought fight with pneumonia. Melissa passed away surrounded by the love of her family (Murray, Paula Courtney, Auntie Heather and Uncle Barry) and extended family of Apple Gate staff. The hole in our hearts is still being ripped asunder by our loss. Melissa was truly one of a kind; she will be missed dearly by all those who came in contact with her.
We extend our gratitude to the physicians and other professionals who advocated over the years guiding Melissa through her tumultuous journey of life. A special thanks to Dr. Douglas for his compassion and support of Melissa.
Finally accolades galore to the nursing team of 2 south at CR Hospital who tirelessly did all they could to assist Melissa in her final fight. We couldn’t have asked for a more empathetic or professional team.
A small private service and celebration of life will be held in the near future.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Melissa Galloway to:
The Gizeh Shriners of BC
3550 Wayburne Drive
Burnaby BC, V5G 3K9
Please include a note that funds are to be directed the Patient Transportation Fund. This keeps all funds in BC for use in transport of children to various hospitals including return trips back home.
Elk Falls Crematorium
Island Funeral Services
250-287-3366