Neil Wiernik
Young Adult Volunteer Peer Facilitator
Since first coming to Wellspring as a member in 2007 Neil has participated in many programs, including Music Therapy (Drumming), Meditation, Qi-Gong, Money Matters, Healing Journey, Return to Work, Art Therapy (Drawing), Relaxation and Visualization, Tai Chi and the Lymphoma Support Group.
He has found all the programs very helpful and all encompassing, teaching both coping skills and providing practical support and information. Neil believes that Wellspring was a major part of his support system and is the reason he could cope with the recurrence of lymphoma.
In particular, the Return to Work and Healing Journey programs helped Neil to reinvent himself and the type of work that he was doing. “They helped me see the bigger picture and reinvent myself”, he said. Neil had worked as a front-line IT professional but now works as an Online Communications Coordinator in the charitable sector. His new career focus allows him to take on a greater leadership role and has a greater focus on communications. “Wellspring helped me move beyond cancer and integrate back into the community after cancer”.
Neil has volunteered to help with many of Wellspring’s fundraising events. In the fall of 2010, Neil rode and walked at the Live Strong Weekend in Austin, Texas, as well as cheered on other Wellspring cyclists. Neil has shared his story and his experiences at Wellspring with others who have also been affected by cancer.
Today Neil volunteers his time as a Peer Facilitator for Young Blood, a program specifically for people who have been diagnosed with blood cancers and with Wellspring’s new Young Adult program.