My incredible Sister Kathryn was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer in January of 2024. Throughout the last year, she has endured much healing and many lifestyle changes. My sister had 2 rounds of chemo that consisted of 20 sessions, double mastectomy, 25 radiation treatments, and now finishing her 3rd round of chemo which was 16 sessions. She will be finished this April. She has displayed such strength, determination, bravery, hope, and humor through it all. She is my and many others inspiration. She has become an advocate in so many ways. She ceases to amaze me, our family, friends, coworkers, and her clients everyday. She powers through everyday with positivity and healing protocol. She is powerful and just quite the most BEAUTIFUL BADASS I have ever met in my life.
I would like to share with you why Kathryn is so passionate and appreciative of the Hinsdale Wellness House.
Kathryn: "During one of my oncology appointments, my doctor asked if I had been in touch with Wellness House. At the time, I didn’t know anything about the Wellness House or the amazing programs they offered to people affected my cancer.
On March 2nd 2024, my husband Joe and I had our official Wellness House orientation where we learned about the amazing organization and the various programs they had to offer. We couldn’t believe this incredible resource was available to us and only a short drive to Hinsdale a neighboring town from our home. The DAILY array of diverse programs that are offered virtually and in person are beyond impressive. From counseling, nutrition, wellness, stress management, exercise and education there is something for everyone. Wellness House envisions a community where all people affected by cancer thrive. Offered at no cost and as a complement to medical treatment, their programs educate, support, and empower participants so they will improve their physical and emotional well-being.
Wellness House has been such an amazing resource for me throughout my personal ongoing cancer journey. I’m not sure how I would feel both mentally or physically without the support and comfort I have found through the Wellness House. Over the past year I have completed 2 rounds of chemo, had a double mastectomy and 25 radiation treatments. I’m looking forward to finishing up my 3rd and (hopefully) final round of chemo on April 8th and breast reconstruction in August. The Wellness House has been there for me through all of these phases of my breast cancer journey and couldn’t feel more blessed.
Here’s some of the many programs I’ve had the pleasure to experience at Wellness House over the past year…
Exercise programs – Beginner mat yoga, open gym and strength training during cancer
Cooking classes – Mexican cooking with Emily, Knife skills, Cook Well Eat Well for Cancer Series, Transitioning to a Cancer Fighting Diet Series, Walk and Brunch, Sushi Making with Nabuki, Puerto Rican cooking with Madeline
Nutrition classes – Benefits of nuts/seeds, Spring Gardening Planting Greens
Stress management programs – Survivorship Series for Young Women Affected by Breast Cancer, Sound Bowl Meditation
Unique Boutique – Glowing through it workshop, Complimentary wig and hair styling, Clean Beauty Tips for Cancer Patients, Reiki, Massage, Healing Energy Touch
I’m so grateful for the Wellness House! I hope my story brings new understanding of what they offer and how they help so many people that are affected by cancer. 2025 marks their 35 year anniversary in which they have served over 55,000 individuals. How remarkable!
For many the Wellness House provides complete cancer care - every step of the way. Whether you have cancer, or you are caring for a friend or family member who is diagnosed with cancer, all are welcome at Wellness House. More than 520 programs are provided each month, both online and in person, to improve physical and emotional well-being and give people with cancer a support network like no other.
Because of the Walk, and the generous donations of individuals and businesses, everything at Wellness House is provided free of charge, providing one less thing to worry about when struggling with a cancer. That's why I have joined the Walk and why I ask you to join me whether walking or donating or both in supporting the people in the fight for their lives.
Love, Dawn XO