By: Gemma Bayaborda
On Thursday October 3, 2013 executive director, Jane George, from Wellwood visited the post-grad Public Relation students. George told a compelling, beautiful, tragic and unique synopsis of her life and how she became executive director of Wellwood. She began her presentation by informing the class on what Wellwood is, and what type of values it has as a not-for-profit organization.
On Thursday October 3, 2013 executive director, Jane George, from Wellwood visited the post-grad Public Relation students. George told a compelling, beautiful, tragic and unique synopsis of her life and how she became executive director of Wellwood. She began her presentation by informing the class on what Wellwood is, and what type of values it has as a not-for-profit organization.
Wellwood is a centre for cancer patients and families. Individuals
who attend Wellwood may be at various stages in their treatment or may know
someone who has been diagnosed with cancer. As George mentioned in her
presentation, “Cancer does not discriminate”, nor does it take into
consideration what “financial bracket” you fall under. There are numerous programs offered at the
centre such as support groups to provide an outlet for emotional stress and
trauma, as well as physical programs that nurture the body and soul. All
programs offered to patients and families at Wellwood are free of charge. As George dove into how fundamental equality
and inclusivity is to Wellwood, my mind began to drift from the concept that we
were talking about people dealing with cancer. Rather I began to focus on how
cancer is an illness that presents an uphill struggle and there is no method of
selection. Wellwood does not decline people seeking help. Their philosophy is
simple, they strive to create an environment that is safe and inclusive, where
there is no judgement just compassion and kindness to support someone who is
experiencing a journey that will be mentally, emotionally and physically
exhausting.
As a student, that has lived in Hamilton for five years and
counting, I could not believe I had not heard of Wellwood prior to that
Thursday lecture. George was a dynamic, witty and personable speaker who was
not only successful in communicating her message about Wellwood, but was
courageous enough to share her own experiences with a group of strangers. The
end result of her presentation- knowledge and awareness is key.
Community Site: Hospital
Site:
501 Sanatorium Rd 711 Concession St.
Hamilton, ON Hamilton, ON
905-667-8870 905-389-5884
501 Sanatorium Rd 711 Concession St.
Hamilton, ON Hamilton, ON
905-667-8870 905-389-5884
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