On her 60th birthday in April 2014, Catherine Vander Cammen received life-changing news: a breast cancer diagnosis. Within just 30 days, she underwent a double mastectomy and began chemotherapy, entering a period marked by fear and emotional turmoil. She recalls: “It felt as though time had suddenly stopped, leaving my life suspended between hope and uncertainty.”
In those difficult moments, Catherine found through Al Jalila Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Dubai Health, a space of compassion, connection, and reassurance that helped her regain strength and confidence, while also allowing her to share her journey with others who had walked a similar path.
She describes her experience with Majlis Al Amal as a turning point in her life: “It gave me hope and reassurance, restored my confidence, and most importantly, gave me back the ability to smile sincerely.”
Today, Catherine channels her experience into inspiring others, reflecting the lasting impact of a community that supports patients beyond treatment and helps them move forward with renewed hope. Her story is a powerful reminder that the support of Al Jalila Foundation goes far beyond treatment, building a nurturing community that transforms hardship into opportunities for renewal. Catherine’s experience affirms that compassion and community care can open the door to new beginnings for cancer survivors.
