1st Session, 42nd Parliament
Volume 150, Issue 190
Tuesday, March 27, 2018
The Honourable George J. Furey, Speaker
Expression of Thanks
Hon. Mobina S. B. Jaffer: Honourable senators, I rise today to give heartfelt thanks to the Honourable Speaker of the Senate, my fellow senators, and the Senate Security and Administration staff for your encouragement, cards and flowers. Your thoughtfulness has made me feel truly blessed to be working alongside such kind and caring people.
[Translation]
As some of you know, I was away last fall for a hip replacement operation. I had been suffering from hip problems for several years, but I feel much better since the operation. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my doctors, Dr. Jetha, Dr. Garbuz, Dr. Reid, and Dr. Chapman, for the care they gave me. I would also like to thank my therapist, Farah Valimohamed Webber, and my physiotherapist, Jason Luce.
[English]
We all have families. In the Senate, my family is the independent Senate Liberals, who have always been very supportive of my work here and throughout my sickness and recovery. To my leaders, Senators Day, Mercer and Downe, thank you for your ongoing support. Every time I contacted Senator Downe to inform him of my return, he reminded me to take care of my health. I thought, senators, that a whip’s job is to have me sitting in the chamber. Instead, he was encouraging me to stay home and get better. Thank you, Senator Downe.
We all have great staff, but I believe I have the very best. Gavin Jeffray, who is my anchor, has worked hard to keep me connected to the Senate virtually. Seema Rampersad and Melina Bouchard have tirelessly supported Gavin and me. I could not do the work here without their help. Thank you.
My work here would not be possible without the support of my patient and selfless husband, Nuralla Jeraj. I am lucky to have an amazing partner. My siblings, their partners and their children have been my cheerleaders. My sister Nimet never missed a day to send me a nutritious meal at the hospital and at home.
Today, I am recovering well thanks to my amazing children, Azool, Shaleena, Farzana and Craig. They nursed me day and night. My precious Farzana stayed by my side for many nights.
Honourable senators, I ask you to find balance in life, as there is nothing more precious than your family. During difficult recovery moments, both my grandchildren, Ayaan and Almeera, cuddled me. I will always treasure what my four-year-old Almeera said as she combed my hair: “Dadima (grandmother), do not worry. I am protecting you.”
Honourable senators, I ask you to look after your health and spend time with your family. Thank you for the warm welcome I have received. I am truly happy to be back in this chamber.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!