Daffodil Place felt like home

It is funny how one of the darkest times in your life can be one of the best times in your life, and it was all because of Daffodil Place.

In May 2011, Donna was diagnosed with breast cancer. A month later she underwent surgery and was told that she would need a series of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. She completed the chemotherapy in her hometown, Clarenville, but would need to travel to St. John’s for radiation treatments, which would last five weeks.

I didn’t want to be away from home, but I knew that the distance was too far for me to travel back and forth every day. Someone suggested that Daffodil Place would be a great place for me to stay. I am really grateful to that person today because their words were so true.

She says that Daffodil Place was truly a home away from home that relieved not only a financial burden, but an emotional one as well.

You have enough to deal with when you hear the word cancer, and Daffodil Place meant that there was much less for me worry about. Your meals are prepared every day and your room is kept clean. Volunteer drivers are available to take you to and from your hospital appointments and there is always entertainment in the evening to help take your mind off what you are going through.

Throughout Donna’s five-week stay at Daffodil Place she met many people going through the same situation as her. The environment was a tremendous support not only for her, but for the caregivers and spouses who were staying at Daffodil Place as well.

Everyone shares their stories, and it helps you realize that you are not alone on your journey,” she says. “During my stay, I saw people sharing their talents. Some learned how to knit, while others learned how to hook mats. I enjoyed putting puzzles together, talking to people and having a few laughs. I formed many new friendships that will last a lifetime and I will never forget the people at Daffodil Place who made the weeks fly by. It is funny how one of the darkest times in your life can be one of the best times in your life, and it was all because of Daffodil Place. I don’t know if you can truly understand how special a place this is unless you experience it first-hand. I would give it more than a 5-star rating. Daffodil Place felt like home, and it will always have a special place in my heart.