Category: Member Stories

Jim Little: cancer to the tune of survival

Jim Little is three years past a radical cancer surgery that included complete removal of his stomach, spleen and several lymph nodes. His message to others facing cancer is … “Get involved with Wellspring, there are tons of good free resources there for you. Get involved with other support groups too, there is value in reaching out and connecting.” He also recommends music and calls his guitar a survival tool.

Ann Dowling: journey to Wellspring volunteer

Ann Dowling may have battled breast cancer in 2011, but she doesn’t look back with regret, she views her current healthy life with positivity, and she is filled with gratitude that cancer led her to Wellspring. “I received so many benefits from Wellspring and now I get to volunteer and help others who have faced what I faced.”

Margo McPhail: Beating Cancer and Paying it Forward to Help Others

In 2019, Margo was making the most of her retirement and spending time with her grandchildren. Life kept her busy and she found fulfillment in giving back to her local community.

Elissa’s Story: Finding the strength within to fight cancer

Elissa had just turned 42 when she felt an uncomfortable lump in her left armpit while swimming at her parents’ outdoor pool. When she went to see her doctor for a regular checkup, she shared her concerns about the lump

Lillas Hatala: opening to grace

At the end of December 2021, one year after losing her husband, Lillas learned that her cancer was back for a third time. It was a devastating blow during a period of deep grief. Immediately she became very ill and a new regime of chemo was prescribed.

Sharon’s Story: lending a helping hand and finding the silver lining in a cancer journey

At 53, Sharon was as healthy and carefree as could be. Between raising her children, working, and enjoying life in the small community of Stettler, Sharon was constantly on the go. Cancer never crossed her mind.

Rosa Escobar: finding cancer support at Wellspring

Rosa was a busy 44-year-old raising three kids of her own and caring for many other kids at her much loved day home, when she began experiencing strange physical symptoms.

Andrew Del Frari: “Wellspring helped me turn my life around”

Andrew Del Frari has worked incredibly hard to reinvent his life, after a cancer diagnosis at age 52 ended his 26-year career in the education field, and left him with limited mobility and a diminished sense of purpose.

Trina McCloy and the Healing Garden

Of all the wonderful Expressive Arts programs at Wellspring, Trina McCloy has a special memory of Felt Images.

Shelley Harley: cancer survivor finds support at Wellspring

Shelley Harley’s number one guardian angel has a soft coat, floppy ears, and impeccable loyalty. She is a Bernedoodle; and like Shelley, she is a cancer survivor.