Receiving a cancer diagnosis is always a huge shock. When I heard those words on New Year’s Day, I never imagined it would change my life so much. That was ten years ago now, but it feels as real as if it happened just yesterday.
Growing up near Greymouth, life was tough. I attended boarding school and rarely saw my family, but I was lucky to have ‘beautiful angels’ supporting me. As a nurse, I cared for the elderly, while my husband, Denis was a Traffic Supervisor. We built a good life with our two wonderful children – I never expected to need care myself.
With my medical training, I knew what to expect physically when I was diagnosed. But emotionally, it was a whole different story. The hardest part was being so far from family and not knowing where to turn for support. That was before I found Mary Potter Hospice.
I’d known about the Hospice for years, through my work at Wellington Hospital, but it wasn’t until my own cancer diagnoses that I truly understood how essential their services were. Coming to terms with the fact that my time might be limited was the most difficult challenge. The counselling services at Mary Potter helped me make sense of everything and navigate this new reality.
The chance to talk openly about my diagnosis was a huge help. I learned that I could deal with my illness in my own way, and despite being far from my loved ones, I was not alone.
Being cared for by Mary Potter felt like being wrapped in the warmth of a big whānau. The weekly art sessions at the Day Unit offered a welcome distraction from the ongoing scans and chemo treatments. And getting to know others who were also facing similar challenges helped lighten the load of living with a terminal illness.
I consider myself one of the lucky ones. My treatment has been successful, and I no longer need as much support from the Hospice’s day unit. But I will always be grateful for the care I received. Mary Potter is a truly special place that brings people together, offering laughter, joy, and connection at a time when it’s most needed.
I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who supports the Hospice. Your generosity has made such a difference in my life. Without Mary Potter’s support, I’m not sure how I would have coped. I ask you to consider helping them continue their vital work, keeping their services free and available to others who need them.