Jeannie Lynn Janssen

Jeannie Lynn Janssen died peacefully on the morning of May 2nd 2023 with her best friend Danielle by her bedside. Cremation has taken place, and as per her wishes there will be no funeral or celebration of life. Danielle and her son Jax are going to plant a tree with some of her ashes in her honor on May 27th, Jeannie’s birthday.

“One of the greatest things about knowing your time here on earth is coming to an end is getting to write your own obituary. I was born in St. Thomas, Ontario, attending various schools in St. Thomas and Ingersoll, eventually graduating high school from IDCI. I went on to study at Marvel Beauty School for my trade in Hairstyling in 2001. I worked at TD Bank, became a hairstylist, practiced microblading and lash extensions, among many other jobs over the years until my illnesses of over 26 years forced me to go on disability.

I’ve always known who I am, a kind empathetic soul with a strong moral compass. All I ever had was my word and honour, I’ve never been fake with others nor weak. I was a Lone wolf to the very core of my being from the beginning till the end of my life. I was born wild and free, and could never be tethered down. I learned to carve my own path early on and run with it. I loved music, art and tattoo culture, working at many different shops over the years. I wore each one of my tattoos with pride. I played soccer from the age of 4 and tried to continue playing until my illness progressed too far in the fall of 2022. That’s when I was diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), after many years of suffering through severe physical pain and fatigue. With no cure and all treatments exhausted, my body continued to deteriorate rapidly, and I was left to face the progressing loss of my dignity.

I have experienced the greatest joys life has to offer and also the deepest sorrows. My son is the absolute love of my life and showed me the true meaning of unconditional love that comes from a special mother/son bond. Jax is well loved and well taken care of. I will greatly miss you, and I cherish every memory and the time I got to spend earthside with you. The world is a better place with you in it. Until we meet again my beautiful baby boy, I love you more!

To my best friend Danielle, my sweet earth angel. Thank you for your bravery and solace and for never turning away even when the times got unbearably tough. That’s what makes you, my soulmate.
Shout out to AMC and my dearest friend Rob, who helped support me through these last 6 months of my battle.

Also, my endless gratitude to Dying With Dignity Canada, and to the doctors who cared for me, offering compassion and peacefully ending my suffering.
Farewell, may this world be a kinder place.
Please live freely, and without judgment. Treat your friends well and strangers alike.
If my life touched yours in some way, I’d ask that you make a stranger smile today. XO.”

Jeannie

Favourite Quotes:

“Don’t be afraid
I’ve taken my beating
I’ve shared what I’ve made
I’m strong on the surface
Not all the way through
I’ve never been perfect
But neither have you” ~Linkin Park

“I hope my death makes more cents than my life.” ~Joker