Audrey was in her late twenties when a diagnosis of lymphoma forced her to put her life on hold for almost a year. Having overcome the difficulties and treatments of the disease with confidence and determination, her discovery of the foundation and her winter adventure in the Gaspé truly boosted her core confidence. We are pleased to introduce you to this bright and inspiring young woman.
Life sometimes forces us off the straight and paved road onto winding, bumpy paths. This is what awaited Audrey St-Pierre during her twenties – an episode of illness that turned her life upside down. After a particularly aggressive chemotherapy and a series of radiotherapy treatments, remission appeared on the horizon like a big lake in which one wishes to immerse oneself, enveloping, reassuring. Finally, she felt her life could resume and regain some sense of normalcy.
Having heard about the On the Tip of the Toes Foundation through an acquaintance, Audrey applied to take part in the winter expedition. She wanted to dive into this physical challenge to reconnect with her body, to confront the elements and to prove that she had lost none of her vigor. She hoped this adventure with the foundation would help to erase the traces left by the disease and allow her to begin to regain possession of her body.
Although she was prepared for the physical challenges that accompany this kind of sporting expedition, Audrey never suspected that this trip would transport her far beyond what she could imagine. Through the physical challenge in the snow-covered scenery of the Gaspé mountains, she would discover that she was a confident and determined young woman, capable of listening to the vibrations in her heart. More than just a physical adventure, it was a journey of self-discovery that allowed her to reconnect with a part of her being that had been neglected for far too long.
An Epic in the Gaspé
In March 2019, Audrey and thirteen other young adults set out into the sparkling landscapes of the Gaspé Peninsula. For 7 days, the group explored the beauty of Mont-Albert, snowshoed the trails of the Chic-Chocs Wildlife Reserve and reached the summit of Sterling Peak on Mont Vallière. After experiencing the vastness and splendours of the territory, the trip ended on the banks of the St. Lawrence River with an evening of celebration and shared emotions.
For Audrey, this trip was an unforgettable experience which enabled her to make significant human connections and overcome many insecurities. Loaded with meaning and filled with emotion, moments shared in the group were unique and filled with truth.
She remembers with emotion her ascent to the summit of Sterling Peak, a climb which required her to go beyond her limits. The feeling of pride that grew out of this success remains etched in her memory. She remembers the sense of deep gratitude, being surrounded by wonderful people, feeling privileged and fulfilled. In the vastness and grandeur of the landscapes that unfolded before her, she left behind a whole year of illness and challenges.
A Precious Gift
This Gaspé adventure left a deep impression on Audrey, who believes that she has freed herself from many fears and has discovered unexpected strength within herself. Today, she cares less what others think of her and faces challenges with more enthusiasm and confidence. The On the Tip of the Toes Foundation came as an unexpected surprise, and she sees this excursion in the Gaspé as an extraordinary gift: “I just want to say a big thank you. The Foundation team, the two Marios, everyone is so involved, it’s only positivity that emerges from this project! It has really changed me. “