Cindy Denise Shulko

The sun has set peacefully for our precious Cindy Denise Shulko on January 27, 2026, at the age of 56.  We knew this day would come, but we never imagined it would arrive so soon.

 

With clarity, courage, and love surrounding her, Cindy chose Medical Assistance in Dying. Her decision was one of peace, a final act of strength that freed her from pain and allowed her to rest.

 

Cindy was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in February 2024, four short months after Dad passed. She met this news with remarkable grace and chose to live fully, doing the things she loved most. Hiking was a true passion, and she could often be found in the mountains, exploring new places and capturing beautiful photographs that she joyfully shared with others.

 

In December 2025, Cindy made the difficult decision to step away from the job she loved at Northern Materials Engineering, hoping to continue following her passions while slowing down and simply enjoying life. Her last day was December 16, 2025. 

 

Around this same time, the cancer unknowingly quickly progressed to the point where further treatment would not change the outcome, and on January 15, 2026, together, we made the decision to stop all treatments and medications and focus on keeping Cindy comfortable. Cindy was transferred to the Pilgrims Hospice on January 20, where she received exceptional end-of-life care.

 

Even then, Cindy remained our rock, accepting her fate while comforting us as we grieved. Her strength was extraordinary. In her eyes, we could see that she was truly at peace. She said it is her time to watch over all of us.

 

Cindy loved the Northern Lights. Lady Aurora will dance again, but this time, Cindy won’t have to chase her, she will be right there, surrounded by her beauty and wonder.

 

She also deeply loved the outdoors and followed in Mom’s footsteps when it came to baking. Cindy had an infectious smile and could strike up a conversation with anyone. She cherished her family, held her friends close, and touched the lives of many. With her kind heart and beautiful soul, she left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew her.

 

Now we embrace and honor her courage and determination, knowing Cindy is no longer in pain and is free to soar beyond us.

 

Our lives have been forever changed. As difficult as the road ahead will be, we will be strong together, just as Cindy was. We will move forward. Our tears will soften, and while we mourn her loss, our hearts will remain full of precious memories of a beautiful soul that can never be taken away. Cindy will walk beside us, together with Dad, watching over us always.

 

A special thank you to all of Cindy’s doctors and caregivers at the Cross Cancer Institute and to everyone at the Pilgrims Hospice Society for the care you provided and the compassion you showed, not only to Cindy, but to all of us who were there with her, and to the MAID Care Team for hearing Cindy’s final wish.

 

At Cindy’s request, there will be no funeral or celebration of life. Instead, light a candle for her and remember her for who she was to you.

 

Your family and friends miss you more than words can hold, our hearts are broken. 

 

Cindy’s passing weighs especially heavy on Mom’s heart; she will forever be wrapped in Mom’s arms.

 

Save us a place next to you and Dad.