Your gift, Julia’s future!

On August 1, 2023, Julia was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Her life completely changed on that day, but a lot changed for the better. She knew how abundantly fortunate she is to live in a time and place where she has so much support and access to great medical care.

“Cancer can be a scary diagnosis, but the journey can also be full of mind-opening, view-shifting, wonder, deep appreciation, gratitude, and joy.”

Julia’s oncologist, Dr. Manisha Nanda, referred her to Maple Tree Cancer Alliance, and Julia is so glad that she did.

“At first, the idea of exercise was overwhelming and frankly not appealing. I was not at all physically fit in the first place, plus my chemotherapy made me feel exhausted and weak all the time.”

However, Julia had been reading about the value of physical activity in cancer healing and recovery, and she wanted to do what she could to help herself, so she took the plunge.

“My trainer, Rachel, has been so supportive every step of the way through my cancer journey so far, through all my chemotherapy, surgery, and recovery. I had days where I could barely drag myself in, but I did. Rachel always adapted the exercise to how I felt that day. I may not always feel good before I exercise, but I know I will feel better afterwards, so I stuck with it. It helped so much with my fatigue and gave me a sense of empowerment and accomplishment. I am getting stronger every day. I never would have done this on my own, and I’m so grateful Maple Tree is available to me.”

We cannot offer this free of charge without friends generously supporting Maple Tree. With your gift, you not only assure it remains free, but also participate in every session, cheer on each patient, and serve a role as important as our trainers.