Volunteer Spotlight: Rosemary Engle

Read a Q& A with DBCC Volunteer and Peer Mentor
Rosemary Engle of Dover

What led you to your involvement with DBCC?
I actually attended the Southern Lights of Life gala before I was involved or knew how to be involved with DBCC. I then called DBCC to inquire about volunteering and was immediately invited to the Peer Mentor Training. I have been involved ever since.

What made you decide to become a peer mentor?
After attending the training, there was no question that this program was a very positive way to be involved with fellow survivors. The training itself gave me a feeling of support that I never experienced since my own diagnosis of breast cancer. We were all able to relate in a special way with each other as we shared a unique common bond. The atmosphere was one that allowed us to comfortably express our feelings and experiences that resulted from our survival journey. I knew that if I could help another survivor to gain that same freedom of expression, then this program was for me.

What have been some of your favorite volunteer opportunities with DBCC?
I have enjoyed every volunteer experience with DBCC, but I must say that being on the Fashion Show Committee for the 2012 Southern Lights of Life Gala has been my favorite opportunity.

What is a memorable moment you have had being a mentor to someone else through their breast cancer journey?
The most memorable moment as a Peer Mentor was when my mentee and I first met for lunch and we really enjoyed sharing so much. We eventually became friends and continue to keep in touch now that she has completed her treatment and can enjoy being cancer-free.

Rosemary (right) with DBCC Program Manager Lois Wilkinson at a Nurture with Nature event

Anything else you would like to add about DBCC or yourself?
I think that all survivors who reach out to DBCC and their various programs are able to continue their involvement and be part of the DBCC family of survivors. There are wonderful programs and events like Nurture With Nature, Southern Lights of Life, volunteer work at various health fairs, educational events, and other community activities that can keep survivors busy and involved year-round. It's great to be able to help DBCC as a survivor, even in any small way.

Rosemary is the Co-Chair of the Fashion Committee for the 2012 Southern Lights of Life which will be held on Saturday, February 25 from 6 to 10 pm at Dover Downs! Local breast cancer survivors will be models for the evening and wear fashions from local retailers.

If you are a breast cancer survivor and are interested in helping newly diagnosed patients through their journeys, click here to learn more about the Peer Mentor Support Program. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, click here.