You’re Not Alone: Wellspring is Bridging the Gaps in Cancer Care

Photo © Courtesy of Wellspring Cancer Support Foundation

You’re Not Alone: Wellspring is Bridging the Gaps in Cancer Care

Cancer doesn’t just affect the body—it impacts every aspect of a person’s life, all too often leaving physical, emotional, and financial scars. But with the right support, it doesn’t have to be this way.

For over three decades, Wellspring Cancer Support has been a lifeline for individuals and families facing the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. Through its wide range of programs that are free-of-charge, Wellspring ensures that no one faces cancer alone.

While many active members of the Wellspring community are those facing cancer themselves, Wellspring provides support to thousands of caregivers and family members each year. In the past year alone, Wellspring saw over 50,000 visits to their programs and touched the lives of over 8,000 individuals— people like Jim, Darlene, Rose, and David, whose resilience and strength are proof of Wellspring’s impact in action.

THE VOLUNTEER WHO FOUND HIS OWN HEALING

Jim has been a beloved volunteer at Wellspring’s Birmingham Gilgan House in Oakville for nearly two decades. Diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Jim initially channelled his experience into helping others. But when his cancer returned, he turned to Wellspring as a member, finding strength in programs like Relaxation and Visualization, Reiki, Cancer Exercise, and Chair Yoga.

“These programs didn’t just help me recover physically—they gave me the tools to face my fears, calm my mind, and regain my strength,” said Jim. Thanks to Wellspring, he’s back to volunteering and doing what he loves best: sharing his warmth and optimism with those around him.

FINDING FAMILY IN THE OASIS GROUP

Diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer, Darlene initially resisted seeking help. But when she finally reached out to Wellspring, her life changed forever. Joining the Oasis Group for those with metastatic cancers, she found a family of peers who shared her struggles.

“Cancer is overwhelming, but in my Oasis Group, I found laughter, tears, and a safe space to be myself,” said Darlene. Now, five years into her diagnosis—defying all odds—she refuses to let cancer define her life.

THRIVING AFTER PANCREATIC CANCER

With a survival rate of just 10 per cent, pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest diagnoses. But Rose beat the odds. After undergoing surgery and chemotherapy, she found refuge at Wellspring. Programs like Art Therapy, Yoga, and Meditation gave her the strength to heal and the courage to give back.

“Wellspring helped me see beyond my diagnosis and live every day with gratitude,” said Rose, who now volunteers as a peer support worker, guiding others through their own cancer journeys.

TRANSFORMING HEALTH THROUGH EXERCISE

When prostate cancer and harsh treatments left David drained and struggling, Wellspring’s 12-week exercise program helped him rebuild his strength and hope. The impact on his health was significant—his triglycerides normalized, his balance improved, and he felt healthier overall, a crucial part of feeling like himself again.

“When I began exercising at Wellspring, all my lipids came back down to normal levels,” said David. “In six months, my cholesterol, my triglycerides, my weight, everything, came down to normal levels, and it was only from diet and exercise—not medication.”

PROVIDING FINANCIAL ADVICE WITH MONEY MATTERS

Cancer isn’t just a health crisis—it’s a financial one. When Colleen was made redundant, had just lost her father, and was diagnosed with rare eye cancer, she was overwhelmed.

“I thought, how will I be able to afford all this financially? The whole system is completely overwhelming and expensive," she shared.

Thankfully, Wellspring offers Money Matters, a free program providing one-on-one support to navigate government benefits, insurance, and other financial resources.

“I wouldn’t have known any of this information without Money Matters. It was like having a step-by-step manual for every situation,” she continued.

YOUR DONATION COUNTS

Wellspring is a lifeline—but it can only exist with your support. Every donation, no matter the size, directly impacts the lives of people living with cancer and their families.

“The donors and supporters of Wellspring are just as important as the doctors who saved my life,” said Jim. “You are part of my care team.”

Learn more at wellspring.ca