35 Stories of Community and Hope
We’re excited to share 35 stories throughout the year from our community of participants, donors and volunteers. It all began 35 years ago because of a dedicated group of people who came together to help people with cancer thrive. Now, 35 years later, Wellness House has served more than 50,000 individuals. Check back throughout the year for stories from the past and present that celebrate our community.
A Shared Vision
Wellness House was built not only with love and hope, but also with contributions of material, labor, and talent from 300 contractors and suppliers and 1,200 technicians. These very special people combined their talents to produce a complete $2 million facility at no cost to Wellness House.
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My Second Home
“When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2022, I told myself that I was strong and could handle this on my own. But after completing my treatment in May, I found myself caught in a roller coaster of emotions. The fear, the loneliness—despite being surrounded by my incredible family and friends—was overwhelming.”
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Unforseen Journey
“It was a beautiful fall day when I had my annual mammogram, but then I received the call that the results didn’t go as planned. I needed to have a biopsy and received my breast cancer diagnosis in late November 2017. After a second opinion and a multitude of tests, I had a lumpectomy in January 2018 followed by chemo and radiation.”
One Day at a Time
“I came to Wellness House as soon as I was first diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2017 by joining Michael William’s general cancer support group. I was a little scared about what I’d encounter there because everyone I knew who had cancer, had died. Here, people were thriving!”
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Lorraine Wolfe – A Legacy of Giving
When people come to Wellness House in search of support and skills to cope with cancer, they find a doorway to hope that is made possible by many donors both past and present. That hope is made possible thanks to scores of volunteers who enable Wellness House to encourage, educate and emotionally support people working to overcome the effects of cancer in their lives. Read More
Making Waves
“I attended a number of programs, a Valentine dinner, a beauty class, nutrition classes and an intro to forest bathing. The most impactful was Michael Williams led Meaning Centered Psychotherapy, where I boldly announced that I wanted to go surfing.
A Date with Wellness House
After my breast cancer surgery in Jan. of 2021, I really wanted to reach out to others who were in my similar situation. I was told about the Wellness House through Elmhurst Hospital. I was seeking support as i navigated my new normal.
Looking Good and Feeling Better
People know that Wellness House is a blessing for participants, but I don’t think people know how much of a blessing it is for those of us who volunteer here,” Gayle Perzek commented while reflecting on her history of volunteering at Wellness House.
Strength and Healing after Treatment
Wellness House played a vital role in my journey through breast cancer, offering support, strength, and community when I needed it most. I’ve had countless meaningful experiences with the dedicated instructors, and several programs deeply resonated with me—especially the cooking classes, walk and brunch events, and informative discussions on CBD and acupuncture.
The Merchandisers
Wellness House stands strong and provides no cost support for those affected by cancer because of the incredible persistence and long-time dedication of The Courtyard merchandisers, Nancy Keenan, Sheila Botti and Kathy Ryan.
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