Over the Easter period I had an amazing opportunity to visit a much loved home of my friend Judy Burley. Judy co-founded The OTIS Foundation along with her husband, Andrew Barling, building a retreat in Bendigo and, before she died, setting a goal to establish retreats for people stricken with breast cancer.
Little did I ever imagine 18 years ago when we lost Judy to this terrible disease, would I ever be a beneficiary of this.
Since my diagnosis in July 2017, I have experienced a huge roller-coaster of emotions but have been blessed along the way with an incredible medical team of caring professionals, friends and family who have been beside me every step. Finally now the major treatments have ceased and I am learning to live the new normal.
Over Easter we had our first family holiday since the diagnosis, away from all the demands of work, school and university. I was reminded going back to Bramare of the incredible warmth of the house and the love that is built into the rammed earth walls and the magnificent trees and views from its vast windows.
We loved looking out for the kangaroos both morning and night and enjoyed some walks around the property. Most of all I enjoyed just sitting and staring out the windows whilst reading a book, enjoying good food and sharing it with some dear friends who were also dear to Judy.
Another highlight was visiting the OTIS office in Bendigo and meeting the staff and volunteers who have the passion to keep the dream not only alive but growing with great gusto. My thanks to Nola, Krissy and the team at OTIS who organised our stay and made it so easy.
My love and thanks to Andrew, Mary and the Burley clan who made Jude’s legacy such an extraordinary gift to so many people including me.
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