Help Families Like Hilary’s Find Hope at Wellspring Niagara
When Hilary Collins received her late-stage cervical cancer diagnosis in December 2019, it didn’t just affect her—it changed life for her entire family. Her husband suddenly found himself balancing the roles of caregiver and partner while their young son struggled to understand why mom was so sick.
“The news came as a devastating shock, turning everything in my life upside down,” Hilary recalls.
After completing her gruelling treatment, a friend introduced Hilary to Wellspring Niagara. What the Collins family discovered was more than just a cancer support centre—they found a sanctuary where each family member could heal in their own way. Hilary found solace in art therapy, quilting, and cooking classes. Her son engaged in kids’ programs and play therapy, giving him a safe space to express his complicated feelings. Her husband connected with other caregivers at family events, finding strength in shared experiences.
“Wellspring Niagara truly offers something for everyone,” Hilary says. “It creates a warm, nurturing environment where you can fully let your guard down and be yourself without judgment.”
Families like Hilary’s rely on Wellspring Niagara’s comprehensive support services—from the wig room, which offers dignity during treatment, to the yoga sessions, which bring peace of mind. These programs exist because of generous donors like you.
“The profound support Wellspring Niagara has provided has been life-changing for us all,” Hilary shares.
“I only wish we had discovered this gem earlier in our journey.”
With your support, more families like the Collins can find the support, community, and healing they desperately need during their cancer journey.
- $50 provides art therapy supplies for children coping with a parent’s diagnosis
- $150 funds a family to attend a supportive care program
- $250 supports a wellness program session, like In-The-Kitchen and Nourish, for cancer patients and caregivers
- $500 helps maintain the wig room and essential comfort services
Celebrating 25 Years: Your Support Made Everything Possible
When dedicated volunteers dreamed of creating a cancer support centre, you—the Niagara community—answered the call. For 25 years, your generosity—not government funding—has enabled Wellspring Niagara to provide free cancer support services to thousands in our community. Your compassion remains the foundation of our work, meeting the growing needs of cancer patients and their families throughout Niagara.
Cancer doesn’t wait—thanks to you, neither will support for those who need it most.
With gratitude,
Ann Mantini-Celima, Executive Director
