Sometimes life changes in ways we never expect. For Carly Mayberry, that moment came in 2019 when she discovered a lump just after her 30th birthday.

“I thought, it can’t be cancer – I’m too young for that,” Carly remembers.

Living in London at the time, she had plans to travel across Europe and start work for the busy summer tourist season. But a medical check changed everything: Carly was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, which had already spread to her bones.

“As I walked from the doctor’s office, I felt completely overwhelmed. To hear words like that at 30 was terrifying,” she said.

Carly began treatment immediately but knew her health journey wasn’t just about medical care – she needed emotional and social support too.

“On my very first day of chemotherapy, I sat in the chair receiving treatment and began searching for support groups. I didn’t know anyone with cancer and wanted to connect with people who understood. That’s when I found The Wesley Choices Cancer Support Centre.”

Carly visited Choices the following week and discovered a welcoming space that offered so much more than she imagined. Choices provides free complementary therapies such as exercise physiology, yoga, art therapy, sewing, and craft sessions – activities designed to ease stress and nurture wellbeing. More than that, it offers connection.

“Throughout my treatment, Choices proved invaluable. When I needed a shoulder to cry on, guidance for making treatment decisions, or simply someone who got it – Choices was there. The friendships I formed and the support I received made an incredible difference,” Carly said.

She reflects on how different her experience would have been without that support.

“My treatment would have looked very different, and I don’t believe I’d be living as healthily as I am now. Mental wellbeing is such an important part of physical health, and Choices gave me both.”

Today, Carly is healthy, happy, and using her experience to support others in her work as a psychologist. Every Thursday – the day she once had treatment – she still wears pink as a personal reminder.

“On Thursdays, I wake up and remember how far I’ve come and the importance of being present in life. It’s a conscious reminder of the gift of life and the support that got me here.”

You can help ensure that people like Carly have access to this life-changing support.
Donate to Choices today.