"At times when I felt completely without hope, Julia...was able to restore my faith again."

Joanne W. (OTIP Member)

"In May of 2008, I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. A colleague informed me of a service called CAREpath that was provided through our insurance that may be of interest to me. I am writing this letter to illustrate the value of this amazing service.

Not long after my diagnosis, I contacted CAREpath, where I was promptly set up with an oncology nurse named Julia. Since that day, Julia has been a source of information, clarification and inspiration. She has called me on a regular basis to review the vast amount of data I have had to process, has prepared me with questions to ask at appointments, has offered suggestions based on consultation with the oncology team as to what my best options are and has explained in simple language what test results mean. When not on the phone, Julia has responded to my questions through e-mail. Beyond the clinical support, she has been of tremendous emotional support during my bleakest days. At times when I felt completely without hope, Julia was able to give me honest, factual feedback to restore my faith again. Her approach has always been at once professional and compassionate.

Cancer is a complex, frightening illness. I am so grateful for the service CAREpath has provided in helping me to understand and cope with it better. My hope is that other agencies will consider providing this service to employees and those that already offer it will continue to do so. It has been tremendously helpful to me."

- Joanne W.. - OTIP Member & CAREpath™ Client