The Sarnia Journal has partnered with local photographer Art Connolly to feature his captivating “Humans of Sarnia” series as he delves into the lives and experiences of everyday people in Sarnia. Follow his series on Instagram and Facebook
Krista: "He is my rock, and I am his."
Krista Pierson’s story begins and remains rooted in Sarnia, the city where she has lived her entire life. In fact, her current home sits right across the street from the house where she was born. For Krista, home is more than just a place—it’s a sense of stability, family, and love.
It was in Sarnia that she met Mark, the man who would become the love of her life. Krista was just 18 years old when they crossed paths, and from that moment, they became inseparable. The couple has since built a life together, raising two sons. Krista describes her family life as filled with love, laughter, and an undeniable bond. But life, as it often does, threw them a curve ball.
In March 2020, as the world was grappling with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Krista and Mark’s world was upended by another crisis. Mark was diagnosed with Stage 4 colorectal cancer. The news was devastating, but Krista and Mark didn’t have much time to process it before diving headfirst into the gruelling journey that lay ahead.
Mark’s diagnosis marked the beginning of a battle that would include six major surgeries and countless hospital stays. The pandemic only magnified the challenges. Due to strict COVID-19 protocols, Mark had to endure surgeries and hospitalizations alone—without Krista, without family, and without the comfort of familiar faces by his side. Mark has gone through both chemotherapy and radiation in 2023 and chemotherapy for a third time starting at the end of September 2024.
“It was so hard knowing he was in there, going through so much, and I couldn’t be there with him,” Krista recalls. The pain of separation was compounded by the uncertainty of the pandemic and the fear that comes with any cancer diagnosis.
When Mark returned home from his hospital stays, the fight was far from over. Recoveries were long and difficult, but Krista says they were fortunate to have the help of home nursing care. “The nurses were so wonderful,” she shares, her gratitude evident.
Despite the immense challenges, Krista and Mark never felt entirely alone in their journey. Krista speaks highly of Dr. John Lenehan and his team at the London Regional Cancer Program, a part of London Health Sciences Centre. “We’re so thankful for their care and expertise,” she says. The medical team provided not just treatment but also hope—a vital ingredient in the Pierson family’s recipe for resilience.
Another pillar of support came from Mark’s employer, VIP Rail. “They were incredible,” Krista says. “They made sure Mark’s job was waiting for him when he was ready to go back. That relieved so much stress for us.” Knowing that his career was secure allowed Mark to focus on his health without the added burden of financial uncertainty.
And today, after years of fighting, Mark is back at work full-time. It’s a milestone that represents more than just a return to routine—it’s a testament to his strength and determination, and to the unwavering support of those around him.
When asked how they managed to cope through such a gruelling ordeal, Krista has a simple yet profound answer: humour. “We did it with a sense of humour,” she says, a smile lighting up her face. “It makes life easier.”
Throughout our conversation, it became clear that humour isn’t just a coping mechanism for Krista—it’s part of who she is. Quick to laugh and openly warm, she exudes a kind of positivity that feels infectious. Despite the hardships her family has endured, Krista’s spirit remains unbroken.
She describes Mark as her rock, someone who has always been there for her, even in the most trying times. And in turn, she has been his. Their love and partnership are the foundation of their strength, a reminder that even in the face of life’s greatest challenges, love can be a powerful force for healing and hope.
As Krista reflects on the past few years, she doesn’t shy away from acknowledging how hard it has been. But she also expresses immense gratitude for the people and organizations that supported her family along the way. “We’re so lucky to have had such amazing care and support,” she says.
Krista’s story is one of resilience, love, and the power of community. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there are bright spots—whether it’s the kindness of a nurse, the understanding of an employer, or the unshakable bond between two people who refuse to let life’s challenges define them.
For Krista and Mark, the journey isn’t over. But as they look to the future, they do so with hope, humour, and the knowledge that they are stronger together. “He is my rock, and I am his,” Krista says. It’s a sentiment that encapsulates their story—a story of love, perseverance, and finding light even in the toughest times.
“Humans of Sarnia” founder Art Connolly is a man fuelled by curiosity and a passion for connecting with people in Sarnia. Inspired by the renowned “Humans of New York” series, with a camera in hand, he captures the very essence of the individuals he encounters, preserving their stories through his lens