Cottagers and Cancer Survivors Unite

By Ashley Shantz

Cottage Dreams will host its first Casino Royale Gala this February to raise money and awareness for the charity that brings cottagers and cancer survivors together. Cottage Dreams offers cancer survivors and their families a chance to recover, rejuvenate and rejoice at the end of cancer treatment during week-long retreats at cottages donated by local Ontarians when they aren’t in use. I chatted with Seana O'Neill, Founder and President of Cottage Dreams, to learn more about the charity’s vision.

Tell us about Cottage Dreams.

My mother is a cancer survivor and following her treatment, our family was able to go to our cottage and celebrate her recovery, where we all benefited from the great space and outdoors. I wanted to be able to provide other families with the same opportunity, and since so many cottages sit empty during the year, it seemed like a natural connection. There were no programs out there to celebrate recovery so I started Cottage Dreams in 2003. We began sending six families to cottages donated by Ontarians and we now support 320 families.

What does this cottage experience provide for cancer survivors? What do you think is the most valuable part?

After the trauma of a cancer diagnosis and treatment, getting a week away at a cottage is out of reach for many after the expense of taking time off work. What the donated cottage time provides most is time for families and support networks to celebrate the end of treatment and recovery. Creating new, happy memories is a recurring testimonial as well as what a pleasure it is for parents to see the kids having fun again.

What is the Casino Royale Gala all about?

The Casino Royale Gala is an event created to raise funds and awareness for Cottage Dreams. We hope our cottage owners, past visitors and GTA residents will come and enjoy a night out. The evening includes gambling, dancing, cocktails and shopping!

How does the money raised help “Cottage Dreams”?

All funds raised are used to pay for coordinating requests, cottage donations, evaluation, matching and following up with applicants, as well as planning and executing each year.

Any final words you’d like to share with our readers?

We are accepting 2012 visit requests! If you know anyone in treatment, or who has a cottage to loan us, please drop us a line at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . We look forward to seeing you at the Casino Royale Gala.