Our Cancer Journey

“My battle with breast cancer began in January 2020, three months after the unexpected passing of my father. As you can imagine, this came as a devastating surprise. As we managed the competing emotions, the scheduled doctor appointments quickly began with chemotherapy beginning in February. I was scheduled for 6 treatments, every 3 weeks.

Driving home from my second treatment, on March 13, 2020, the world as we knew it, changed. My children (ages 4, 6 and 9) were out of school and daycare, my husband took on a vigilant approach to COVID and my safety, and the help that was offered to us was no longer available.

I continued my treatments as scheduled, family support was limited but I still worked full time and managed the household as best as possible. In late June, I underwent a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. I went back to work a few months later and continued additional targeted treatment sessions, scheduled to end in June 2021.

Between the appointments, tests, treatments, continued care of my family and the emotional roller coaster of the past year, I try to stay positive.

I’m thankful for my faith, to be close to an incredible healthcare system with top doctors, have the support of family and friends and my work environment. Our children do their best to understand the ever changing needs of our home and the world around us, however it can be hard on days when Cancer and COVID have a negative impact on our regular activities, outings and gatherings.

The opportunity to take a break from cancer is one that I never could have imagined. As a family, we are looking forward to the future and to put the last year’s barriers behind us.

Our Break From Cancer

Julie and her family traveled to Woodloch Resort for a Travel Respite and enjoyed precious time together. Watch their video testimony to see how respite benefitted their family!

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Our Stories

Our Travelers take a break from what life with cancer has become with doctor visits, surgery, tests and treatment. Through a unique gift of time together, they create priceless magical, memorable moments, experience immeasurable joy amidst devastating crisis, confront cancer hardships together and find emotional healing, hope and happiness during an uncertain and tumultuous time.