Driving home from Wellspring one day, Naomi Van Veen felt overcome with gratitude and a desire to give back to the community that has been her anchor through the difficult days of cancer and health recovery.
“I decided right then that I would sign up to become a monthly Wellspring donor. I’m so glad I did this! It’s not much; we can’t really afford much right now, but it’s something, and it feels like a good way show my appreciation,” said Naomi, adding, “After all, if Wellspring cost money, I would still want to go – I would find a way to pay out of pocket – it’s just so worth it.”
Naomi and her husband Carl first experienced cancer in 1997 when their daughter Lindsay was diagnosed with kidney cancer at just two and a half years old. After surgery and chemotherapy Lindsay’s cancer was successfully treated, but she struggled with a number of other health issues that required her to stay in her parents’ care until 2019, when at the age of 23, she sadly passed away. Naomi and Carl are deeply saddened at the loss of their only child.
Less than three years later, pain in Naomi’s right lower back, revealed a small but aggressive tumour that was renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer).
“My cancer story is a happy one compared to many others, in that we were able to get the tumour out, but it was a bumpy road getting to that point as doctors didn’t want to do surgery because of other health issues I suffer with. Carl and I felt strongly we wanted it out, so we had to persist until we found a surgeon who would agree to do it. This surgeon, Dr. Desantis was a Godsend, he removed the tumour and part of my kidney,” said Naomi.
Now, coming up two years later, Naomi says she has never really bounced back after her cancer ordeal, and is currently dealing with other health issues, but one thing that remains constantly helpful and enriching in her world, is Wellspring.
“Between the pandemic, cancer, and leaving my job at Bow Valley College, I was in a pretty hard place – really struggling with my mental health when I started going to Wellspring in 2022. In some ways, I feel that Wellspring saved me. I had a safe place to go; I met people who care; I was welcomed with open arms,” she said.
Naomi has taken several programs, including art, yoga, dance, and pole walking.
“I’m not very good at art but the Wellspring program leader is so encouraging, she always makes you feel like you are doing a good job. I started ‘Dance for Wellness’ and it felt so good to move my body. It helps with balance and coordination and trying to follow the patterns is good for the brain,” said Naomi.
Carl joined Naomi for some programs, including Qigong, which he really enjoyed. The two of them also attended some evening concerts that welcomed a broader audience.
“Everything about Wellspring is just incredible; The members, the program leaders, the volunteers, they are all so lovely. I have enjoyed meeting people and getting to know them. They listen and care, offer suggestions and referrals. You really get the feeling they want to do all they can to make you feel comfortable. It’s an amazing community of people caring and sharing,” said Naomi.
Wishing to show their appreciation, and to ensure that Wellspring can continue to help others, the Van Veens decided to make a long-term commitment to the community that has lifted and sustained them.
“To truly show our gratitude, we have included a bequest to Wellspring in our wills. This way we can support Wellspring even long after we are both gone,” said Naomi.
2 Responses
This is such a positive endorsement of all the work Wellspring does. There is a program – or more – for each person. I am glad you found Wellspring and decided to check it out.
Thank you for your continuing financial support for Wellspring – so important!
Naomi, thank you for sharing your story. A personal story means so much to to so many. You’ve paid it forward and we are fortunate that you join us here at Wellspring Alberta.