CORNWALL, Ontario – Elizabeth Dessureault’s two-year battle with lung cancer ended in hospital this Saturday Feb. 25 at the age of 27. Having been first diagnosed while pregnant with her son, Jack, Dessureault has since become a well-known local advocate for the illness.
“In April of 2015, I was diagnosed with advanced stage non-small cell adenocarcinoma lung cancer,” said Dessureault in a blog post. “As an otherwise healthy, non-smoking young adult, this news came as a complete shock.” Elizabeth faced her illness with courage and grace and helped redefine many people’s perception of the disease.
Last fall, Dessureault received the difficult prognosis that her disease had progressed to both of her lungs.
“Despite everything that has happened … I absolutely love my life,” wrote Dessureault. “I consider myself to be one of the luckiest people in the world because I am surrounded by the most amazing people.” Her contribution within the community and vibrant personality leave a lasting impact on all who knew her.
Along with husband Dax and son, Jack, she is survived by her parents, Louis and Robyn Denis, as well as her brother, Mathieu Denis. Donations in her name can be made to the Ottawa Regional Cancer Centre, the Lung Cancer Foundation ROS1 Initiative, or the Chris Draft Family Foundation.
Elizabeth Dessureault’s funeral will be held Saturday, March 4 at 2 p.m. at Knox St. Paul United Church in Cornwall. There is no visitation.
