“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. My treatment ended in September of 2018.
Throughout this journey as I visited with my team of doctors, I noticed the theme of the “Wellness House” in the waiting rooms. The doctors had the physical issues under control, but I wasn’t sure how to physiologically deal this unexpected diagnosis. Then one of my doctors suggested I call Jeri, the Pink Ribbon instructor at Wellness House. Jeri welcomed me to observe her class, then she recommended I attend the networking group that evening. In the meantime, I met with Ellen for my orientation and was amazed at the many resources offered at the Wellness House. It was a whirlwind after that. I felt so lost and overwhelmed, but at the same time I felt understood. I was, and still am, so grateful for the leaders, instructors, staff and other cancer patients and survivors I met during this time.
While in treatment, I participated in exercise and mind/body classes, nutrition classes, seminars, and the networking group. The support and understanding I experienced helped me to navigate this unforeseen journey. It takes a certain kind of person to work with those affected by cancer. I feel so lucky to have met such caring and talented people at the Wellness House. ” – Therese
