Category: Member Stories

Karla Medkova: unexpected awakening

Karla Medkova never imagined that in the midst of a pandemic that shook the world, she would face a more ominous threat – breast cancer at age 34. But this young woman, who is not yet a year past diagnosis and has come through many months of gruelling treatment, isn’t shattered at all – she is impossibly whole.

Christine Lo: TikTok llama brings cancer relief

Christine Lo has found relief from cancer by creating a TikTok account featuring her pet llama Cosmo. She has also learned to be present and take in all the wonders of her country home life, from hawks to Northern Lights.

Trevor Hamon: throat cancer veteran on a mission

Trevor Hamon felt like the only person in the world living with an agonizing form of throat cancer. Today, 14 years after diagnosis, he has cultivated a passion for cancer research, and with the support of his Wellspring community, he knows he is not alone on this difficult path.

Tina Slade: embracing a reframed life

Tina Slade applies her signature brand of dark humour to cope with the challenges of cancer. Read how this Nanton-based lab tech views life through a new lens when she gets to the other side.

Mike Wark: young adult from Red Deer finds cancer support

When Mike Wark was diagnosed with cancer as a young adult at age 27, he leaned into his faith, and navigated the rocky road to wellness by applying his courageous spirit and his bold mountain biking skills.

Heartfelt donation

Velma Beebe found solace and joy at Wellspring Calgary. When Velma lost her life to cancer, her sister Dorothy transformed Velma’s love of artistic pursuits into a donation, so others facing cancer could benefit from Wellspring’s supports.

Karen Campbell: calm heart, warrior spirit

Karen Campbell was nearing the end of her 30-year career working for Parks Canada, and had ventured into a new job, when she developed a persistent cough. Read how her path took an inexplicable turn.

Dave Nitsche finds support with men’s group after cancer diagnosis

Dave Nitsche knows the highs of mountaintops and the lows of cancer, and he opts to train his sights on the peaks, and keep on climbing. Dave wants other men to know, cancer doesn’t have to be a solo journey – there is strength to be had in numbers.

Marilyn Will: tried and true

Marilyn Will has a 360-degree perspective of Wellspring Calgary … she has been a volunteer, member and valued committee member. Read how Marilyn’s connection to Wellspring spans over a decade, and sparked a generous donation from her parents’ art collection.

Kristel Boon: home away from home

Kristel Boon says she’s ‘slowly reemerging’ after a cancer diagnosis in 2018 threatened to derail her trip abroad. Read how she is back on home ground and finds solace at Wellspring Calgary.