Two years ago, Del was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic cancer. His doctor told him to go home and get his affairs in order. After a series of treatments, the man who had always been known as “rough and tough” was suddenly unrecognizable to himself. Del could no longer walk, he felt like a shell of the person he once was. His outlook on life darkened, and he struggled to understand what there was left to hope for.

His doctor suggested he explore the West Island Cancer Wellness Centre, and Del did, apprehensively, figuring he had nothing to lose. Little did he know, it would be a decision that changed his life. Through programs like chair yoga and tai chi, Del gradually began regaining mobility and confidence. He still remembers starting tai chi seated, relying heavily on a cane, until eventually he no longer needed the chair, or the cane. He truly believes these programs played an important role in helping him become mobile again.

But the changes went far beyond physical progress.

Del found a welcoming community where he felt understood and supported. The friendships, the conversations, and the everyday moments shared with participants, staff, and volunteers helped lighten his perspective and bring a sense of connection back into his life.

Now, Del visits the Centre a few times each week. Every time he leaves, he says he feels better, whether it’s from a class or session, or simply from a meaningful discussion with someone who gets what he’s going through. He talks about the “thousand firsts” he’s experienced here: his first massage, first reflexology session, first cooking class, things he never imagined trying. And every one of these programs is offered completely FREE of charge.