Finding Her Calling: Wendy’s Chemo Pal Story
Wendy is an enthusiastic volunteer in the Children’s Cancer Association’s Chemo Pal Mentor Program. When she retired in 2014, volunteering was a priority, and working directly with people facing cancer was near and dear to her heart.
15 years ago, Wendy’s close friend died of breast cancer. “We helped her, supported her, and comforted her when she died. It was a horrible experience, but it was also beautiful. Being able to help my friend was difficult but it just felt right,” Wendy said.
That experience planted the seed for future volunteer work involving cancer. Helping people during a difficult time was Wendy’s calling. After some research she discovered the Chemo Pal Mentor Program and was hooked.
“People told me they could never do this kind of volunteer work. ‘It’s too hard, too sad, etc.’ Actually, it is the most fulfilling, fun, happy volunteer work I have ever done.”
Wendy’s volunteer ambitions came to fruition when she was matched with four-year-old Lyla. In July 2017, Lyla was diagnosed with Wilms’ tumor and has been in treatment since. Wendy recalls the first time they met.
“I was both excited and scared when I received the call and when I walked into her hospital room for the first time all of the ‘what if’s’ flooded my mind.
After being introduced to her parents I got on my knees and said, ‘Hi Lyla. My name is Wendy and I’m your Chemo Pal. Do you want to play?’ She looked at me shyly, thought for a moment then said, ‘Ok.’ We have been pals ever since. Lyla’s mother tells me that Lyla actually looks forward to her treatments because I will be there. How cool is that?!”
And that’s not all that’s changed about Lyla. Wendy has seen her blossom and mature in just one short year, showing off her silly sense of humor. “She’s smart, wise, and an inspiring artist. When Lyla has the energy she’s silly and I never see her as a chemo kid, she’s just an amazing little girl.”
Lyla is now nearing the end of treatment and Wendy feels as if she’s learned and grown from the experience as well.
“I read the news and my heart beats harder and I feel angry and sad, but when I see Lyla, everything else goes away and being there for her is so much more important.
Chemo Pals can’t cure cancer or take away the discomfort of living with cancer, but we can bring joy to children going through treatment. This is all about making children happy during a tough time in their lives, their parents and siblings too. Anything I can do to help CCA and continue the program is something I’m happy to do.”
Chemo Pal Mentors give kids a caring, trusted adult friend who is in their corner when they need it most. Their companionship helps relieve the anxiety, loneliness, and isolation often experienced by children in treatment.
Please consider making a donation today to support the Chemo Pal Mentor Program.