A wife, mother of three, cancer advocate and volunteer, Helen Densmore Cleary learned this through experience. While battling cancer, Helen learned that a supportive environment enables cancer patients to feel hope and have the courage to face another day.
Helen had a vision and was determined to see it through. She believed that patients deserved to be surrounded by the same kind of compassion and support she was receiving from her family, friends and community. After 18 months of intensive planning and preparation, their vision became a reality.
The Sunshine Room opened in June 2003. In November of that same year, Helen lost her battle with cancer. An incredible woman and a champion for cancer patients, Helen brought a ray of sunshine into the lives of everyone she met. The Sunshine Room began because of her compassion and perseverance - it continues to thrive because of the many volunteers who believe in it as much as Helen did. It is a symbol of her dedication and commitment to improving the quality of life for people living with cancer.
“The Sunshine Room represents a huge step in realizing the tremendous need and potential for patient support,” said Jill Flinn, Health Services Manager, Capital Health Cancer Care Program. “Getting the room completed was a collaborative effort. It really became a labour of love for many people.”
Thanks to interior designer Bea Doucet-Watts, the Sunshine Room was transformed into a beautiful and inviting haven for cancer patients. She created a cheerful décor, and donations of paintings and furniture brought a finishing touch to the uplifting, peaceful atmosphere.
Click here to view the Sunshine Room information poster.