We are proud to feature our charity of the month in this interview with Lisa Stacey, Manager of Wellspring Stratford Cancer Support Centre. What makes Wellspring so special is its accessibility. Wellspring charges no fees, and requires no medical referral. Programs and services are available free of charge, on both a drop-in and registered basis, for individuals, family members and caregivers coping with any type of cancer, at any stage.

Q: What is a memorable moment or experience in your centre that you can share?

When the weather is nice, we would go out for lovely meditation walks with the members. One of their favourite things to do is walk amongst their peers breathing in the fresh air looking at the trees and flowers. Then heading back into the centre and sharing a cup of tea and chatting about their experience.

Q: What are the most fundamental needs of a centre member, both physically and emotionally? 

Physically a member requires supportive environment. Emotionally they need understanding and compassion and access to support to navigate them through their journey.

Q: What moments of courage have you experienced in your centre that have stayed with you?

There has been many acts of courage at. our poetry workshops, with members not only  surprising themselves that they could even write a poem, but to read them aloud in front of the group showed their true emotional strength and courage.

Q: Nothing is more valuable than our capacity to love in times of need – can you share an example of this?

Our members are the core of love in our centre. Everyone who becomes a part of Wellspring becomes a family. People check in with one another if they haven’t seen them in a while, or will touch base knowing they are struggling.

Q: How has working at a centre shaped your relationship with life?

Working at Wellspring has deepened my appreciation for resilience, and learning to live life every day, cherishing every moment.

Q: A cancer diagnosis raises many fears surrounding loss. Which do you find are the biggest fears?

The biggest fears surrounding a diagnosis often revolve around the potential loss of life and a sense of control.

Q: There are many adjustments to life as someone undergoes cancer treatments. Which do you find members struggle with the most?

Members often struggle the most with the adjustments to their daily routines, loss of independence and the emotional uncertainty of the future.

Q: For many people, death is an uncomfortable topic. How do you address those feelings and associated fears at your centre? 

At Wellspring we approach the issues around death by compassionate conversations, providing resources, coping techniques, creating a supporting environment that understands and accepts. 

Q: What’s your advice on enduring the pain of losing someone you love?

Coping with loosing someone to cancer involves embracing grief, seeking support, honoring their memory with their positive memories.

Q: When is it most important to support someone who is grieving?

It is crucial in the initial stages of loss and continues they navigate the ongoing challenges of adapting to life without their loved one.: 

Q: Often a month after someone passes, those who are still grieving feel alone as everyone goes back to their regular lives. What is your advice?

We would encourage our members to connect with other individuals with similar experiences, providing resources in person and online for coping. 

Q: Do you find that those who are grieving have a harder time in the months that follow a loved one’s passing?

Most definitely individuals will have difficulty in the months after ones passing due to the challenges of adjusting back to life and routine again without their loved one.

Q: In our digital age, do you feel that empathy and listening is needed more than ever?

Most definitely, personal connections can be lacking, especially after Covid, active listening is crucial at our centre to provide genuine support and understanding.

Q: What are the reasons why people hesitate to contact a centre?

People may hesitate to contact Wellspring due to fear of vulnerability, stigma around cancer, or thinking they can cope by themselves.

Q: What is the greatest need in your centre?

One is fostering a compassionate environment with volunteers, two is raising funds, and three new members to utilize our programs.

Q: From our products, what is your wish list item for Wellspring Stratford Cancer Support Centre?

Your generosity means the world to us! The Gift Boxes, in particular, would make a significant impact at Wellspring, providing a heartfelt welcome gesture for new members who have just joined. It’s a special touch they can take home with them.

Thanks for supporting our featured charity of the month.