Zelda “Sonnie” Meltzer
Sonnie Meltzer’s passion to support others coupled with her own journeywith ovarian cancer embodies the strength, hope, courage and “wellness” found at The Wellness Community.
“With The Wellness Community’s support,
I have what everyone needs— h-o-p-e.”
Beginning seven years ago, Sonnie’s cancer diagnosis came as a complete shock. She had always prided herself on good health and staying fit. In 2000, however, during an aerobics workout, Sonnie had difficulty doing sit ups and sensed something was wrong. For six months her condition went improperly diagnosed. Her physician finally ordered a cat scan and Sonnie was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. At the same time, he also recommended The Wellness Community (TWC).
Always an independent and strong woman, Sonnie felt reluctant at first to participate in a support group. After her first group meeting, it became an integral part of Sonnie’s treatment. Her recovery and participation produced an unexpected twist. Sonnie wanted to help others and launched the Wellness Community’s Ovarian Cancer Networking Group that meets regularly on the first
Saturday of each month.
In 2004, Sonnie, along with TWC’s program director, accepted Temple Beth Israel’s Humanitarian Award on behalf of TWC. In her speech, she outlined what the word “wellness” means to her:
W - Well-being in our fight for recovery through emotional support and hope
E - Energy—from TWC’s support groups
L - Love and caring of each other
L - Looking for new ways to cope with our illness
N - Need for understanding in what we are going through
E - Education—exchanging of knowledge
S - Sympathy—when needed
S - Strength—we get and we give to one another
“The most important part of The Wellness Community is being part of an extended family,” says Sonnie.
“With its support I have what everyone needs and that is h-o-p-e.”