A decade ago, Julie’s life changed suddenly when she found a lump in her breast while showering. At 54, she was quickly told she had breast cancer and was referred to Chris O’Brien Lifehouse. Like many, she expected a scary and overwhelming experience. Instead, she found something very different.
“From the moment I walked in, I felt looked after,” Julie says. “It was stressful, of course, but the care was incredible.”
Julie had chemotherapy and radiation therapy, facing some difficulties, including a short hospital stay after her first treatment. Even so, she says her time with us was supportive and encouraging. The friendly atmosphere and real care from the staff helped her feel less alone during her treatment.
Now, ten years on, Julie has reached a remarkable milestone. At her most recent check-up, she was told she no longer needs follow-ups. Julie never had the chance to ring the bell at the end of her treatment because her final chemotherapy session was cancelled. To mark the moment, we’ve invited Julie back to finally ring the bell - a powerful celebration of everything she has overcome.
“It’s a strange but wonderful feeling,” she says. “To walk away without another appointment, there’s a real sense of closure.”
Inspired by her experience, Julie has chosen to leave a gift in her Will to support future patients. She describes the Will-writing process as simple and hopes her contribution will help drive cancer research and continue improving care.
Because of supporters like you, more people like Julie can celebrate reaching important milestones.
“From the moment I walked in, I felt looked after,” Julie says. “It was stressful, of course, but the care was incredible.”
Julie had chemotherapy and radiation therapy, facing some difficulties, including a short hospital stay after her first treatment. Even so, she says her time with us was supportive and encouraging. The friendly atmosphere and real care from the staff helped her feel less alone during her treatment.Now, ten years on, Julie has reached a remarkable milestone. At her most recent check-up, she was told she no longer needs follow-ups. Julie never had the chance to ring the bell at the end of her treatment because her final chemotherapy session was cancelled. To mark the moment, we’ve invited Julie back to finally ring the bell - a powerful celebration of everything she has overcome.
“It’s a strange but wonderful feeling,” she says. “To walk away without another appointment, there’s a real sense of closure.”
Inspired by her experience, Julie has chosen to leave a gift in her Will to support future patients. She describes the Will-writing process as simple and hopes her contribution will help drive cancer research and continue improving care.Because of supporters like you, more people like Julie can celebrate reaching important milestones.
