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Cancer wellness support

Meet Our Team

Introducing our purpose-driven team

Our Management Team

Deborah Shepherd

Chief Executive Officer

Vivienne Maitland

Client Services Manager

Gail Searle

Retail Manager

Candace Coughlan

Operations Manager

Mary Donnelly

Fundraising & Events Manager

Kerry Denten

IT Manager

Our CWS Team

- Client Services -

Samantha Alana

Client Services Coordinator

Alyshia Denten

Wellness Centre Coordinator
Penrith

Carolyn Wilkinson

Wellness Centre Coordinator
Leura

- Operations -

Suzy Baker

Operations Coordinator

Connie Ray

Operations Support

Judith McGrath

Bookkeeping and Payroll

Tania Sloan

Executive Assistant

- Retail -

Maria McLean

Retail Supervisor

Yvonne Van Schiack

Retail Supervisor

Carol Black

Retail Assistant

Deborah Shepherd

Chief Executive Officer
Deborah was appointed as our CEO in November 2022, bringing her breadth of experience in all aspects of management, fostering a positive team culture and her strong passion for complementary therapies and accessibility.

Deborah has held global executive leadership roles for over 30 years across sales and marketing, general management and project management within the wealth management industry, and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (MAICD)

As a qualified wellness practitioner, she has personally supported many people through her modalities of energy healing, reiki and aromatherapy. Deborah’s Embrace Life™ festivals operated across Sydney and regional NSW, engaging local businesses (including in Penrith and the Blue Mountains), Councils and Chamber of Commerce to showcase the diversity and creativity within each community.

She led and created a purpose-driven collective in her roles of CEO for SoulAdvisor (Australia and New Zealand) and as Director and Chief Operating Officer of the SoulAdvisor Foundation, and is widely known for her commitment to developing the professionalism, accessibility of the wellness industry, and education using evidence-based research.

Deborah was drawn to Cancer Wellness Support as she has always understood the benefits and strengths of complementary therapies, yet witnessed these could often be cost-prohibitive, especially when faced with the financial constraints that a cancer diagnosis can deliver. The overarching model that allows accessibility with a strong community focus and founded on the values of compassion, care and community resonated deeply with her.

On a personal level, Deborah now lives in the Illawarra region, but this was not always the case. Growing up in St Marys, and with her family still living in the area, she embraces coming back each week to spend quality time with them.
Ultimately, as our CEO she is able to bring together all of her career experiences and life passions into one role.

Vivienne Maitland

Client Services Manager

Viv commenced with Cancer Wellness Support in 2017 as a Counsellor, and by 2018, she was offered the role of Client Services Manager, a position she continues to thrive in.

Holding a Bachelor of Counselling, over the last 14 years, she has worked as a counsellor in private practice and contributed to specialised counselling programs for Carers SA. Additionally, she has taught in the Diploma of Counselling and Bachelor of Human Services (Counselling).
It is this work that brought her to Cancer Wellness Support, where she operates through the lens of her counselling background supported by her nursing knowledge. Her experience has provided her with invaluable insights into the experiences of both carers and the cared-for, particularly in the context of grief and loss.
Viv’s professional journey has included time in social policy within the Premier and Cabinet in Western Australia. She engaged in statewide consultations, spanning Indigenous communities and prisons, to shape a social vision for the future.
Venturing into media, she produced the Flying Doctor Appeal on ABC Radio. She also served as the State Fundraising Manager for Mission Australia and the General Marketing Manager for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Foundation, each role contributing to her diverse skill set.

As Client Services Manager, she oversees our qualified team of therapists, counsellors and nurses, develops programs and service offerings, liaises with local healthcare professionals and leads our Client Services team to oversee our Wellness Centres in Leura and Penrith.

Her background in nursing and counselling equips her with a unique perspective that bridges medical and complementary therapies, ensuring their therapy offerings and programs align with the needs of their clients and carers.

It’s much more than ‘just a job’ for Viv – it’s her heartfelt commitment to improving the lives of people living with cancer and their families.

Gail Searle

Retail Manager
Since 2013, Gail has played a pivotal role in the Cancer Wellness Support team, overseeing and managing our Op Shops in Penrith and Katoomba as the Retail Manager.
With over two decades of retail experience under her belt, Gail’s commitment to the community stems from a decade of working with the NSW Police, supporting the Superintendent across Head Office, Penrith, and Blacktown.
Gail’s journey into this role was shaped by her 23-year tenure at Franklins, which left her contemplating her next career move after the store’s closure.
Following many years of fundraising for homeless shelters, volunteering for soup kitchens, and participating in Relay For Life, Gail couldn’t quite believe that a role combining retail with community existed, and she knew she had to put her hat into the ring.
Upon her initial meeting with the founder, Robyn Yates OAM, Gail felt an immediate connection that led to her being offered the job on the spot. Almost a decade later, what she cherishes most about her role remains the same: the meaningful conversations, unwavering support, and the bonds formed among volunteers, staff, and customers.
Amidst countless cups of tea and delicious treats from the local bakery, Gail’s team, the customers, and she have shared moments of laughter and tears, fostering lifelong friendships. She revels in the genuine community atmosphere of each op shop, where the warmth of walking in is always accompanied by a sense of belonging.
Gail wishes she had known about this role 20 years ago, as it perfectly encapsulates her strengths and everything that she is passionate about.

Candace Coughlan

Operations Manager

With over two decades of experience in project and business management, Candace brings a wealth of strategic insight and practical expertise to her role as Operations Manager at Cancer Wellness Support. 

A qualified wellness practitioner, she is deeply committed to creating supportive, efficient environments that empower teams to focus on making a positive impact. Drawn to Cancer Wellness Support’s mission of providing compassionate services to individuals affected by cancer, Candace saw this role as an ideal way to combine her professional skills with her passion for community wellness.

Candace’s career is marked by her dedication to enhancing processes, building strong relationships, and fostering a collaborative workplace culture. She leads a diverse array of operational functions, including finance, facilities management, IT, and team support, ensuring that all aspects of Cancer Wellness Support run seamlessly. 

Her experience across various sectors has equipped her with a keen ability to solve problems, manage complex projects, and implement strategies that drive both efficiency and resilience.

Known for her warm, inclusive leadership style, Candace believes in nurturing a work environment where each team member feels valued and supported. 

She is proactive in identifying areas for improvement, continuously seeking ways to streamline processes and optimise resources to enhance the organisation’s ability to serve the community. Based in the beautiful Blue Mountains, Candace brings both her professional expertise and her personal commitment to wellness, helping Cancer Wellness Support continue its vital work with operational excellence and a compassionate touch.

Mary Donnelly

Fundraising & Events Manager

 

Mary Donnelly joined the Cancer Wellness Support team in December 2023 as our Fundraising and Events Manager.

Previously, Mary had the privilege of working with Robyn Yates OAM, which deepened her connection to our purpose and how we support our local community. 

With over two decades of experience in the not-for-profit sector, fundraising, and event management, Mary was drawn to Cancer Wellness Support’s purpose-driven and values-based approach. She is passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in the local community living with cancer.

Mary spent 20 years with the Children’s Medical Research Institute, culminating in her role as National Events Manager, where she successfully led numerous fundraising events as part of the nationally recognised Jeans for Genes Campaign.

For the past 10 years, she has run her own small business, which she continues to this day while simultaneously bringing her expertise in relationship building to Cancer Wellness Support.

In her role, Mary focuses on strengthening and expanding CWS’s established supporter base to ensure both immediate and long-term support for clients and carers. Her dedication to our purpose has made her an invaluable part of the team.

Mary takes pride in contributing to the growth of Cancer Wellness Support and finds immense satisfaction in witnessing the direct impact of fundraising and events on our Wellness Centres and the lives of local people navigating their cancer journey.

Kerry Denten

IT Manager


Kerry Denten joined the Cancer Wellness Support team in April 2023 as our IT Manager, bringing a wealth of expertise and a passion for making a difference.

After running his own successful cloud services business for over 15 years, Kerry was ready for a new chapter as he approached 60. He was seeking a fresh challenge that would allow him to contribute to a meaningful cause.

When he discovered the role at Cancer Wellness Support, he immediately recognised it as the perfect fit, with a chance to apply his technical talents to an organisation that makes a positive difference for the local community.

But technology isn’t Kerry’s only claim to fame. With a 30-year broadcasting career under his belt working for almost every radio station in Sydney, he’s a familiar voice to many as a sought-after voiceover artist, recording radio, TV, and corporate content for clients across Australia and beyond, still recording almost every day from his own home studio.

Kerry also developed a software platform for radio news presentations and still runs his own company offering a suite of web-based communication tools for small and medium-sized businesses.

At Cancer Wellness Support, Kerry has brought all his skills together, revolutionising our IT systems and security by creating a unified, streamlined framework that enhances efficiency and protects our vital operations.

Kerry finds deep satisfaction in CWS’s purpose, the progress the team has achieved, and the joy of knowing his work positively impacts the lives of clients and carers.

Known for his kindness, friendship, and care, Kerry brings these qualities to every aspect of his life and work. At Cancer Wellness Support, he has found an environment where these values are reflected back, fostering a workplace filled with hard work, shared passion, and plenty of laughter.

For Kerry, every day at Cancer Wellness Support is meaningful, rewarding and personally gratifying.

Samantha Alana

Client Services Coordinator

rawn to Cancer Wellness Support for its purpose-driven and heart-centred approach, Samantha (Sam) Alston commenced in early 2021 as the Executive Assistant to the CEO and Board.

During this time, Sam felt a natural pull towards Client Services. Since Cancer Wellness Support didn’t have a receptionist, she often found herself at the front desk at the Robyn Yates Centre in Leura, greeting clients and carers and gaining insights into the core of what makes this place so special.

Vivienne Maitland, Client Services Manager, noticed this too, and when the timing was right in September 2022, Sam moved across into the Client Services team. 

As Client Services Coordinator, Sam splits her time between the front desk at Leura for two days per week and spends the other three days working behind the scenes implementing new processes, bringing in new therapists, spreading awareness about CWS service offerings, and co-writing Monthly Matters for clients and carers.

Sam’s role is deeply client-centred, blending her passion for complementary therapies and her dedication to supporting others with compassion and empathy. Through her training in yoga and sound therapy, Sam enhances her ability to create a nurturing and calm environment for clients and carers.

With a background as an EA/PA and in administrative roles, she combines her strong organisational and collaborative communication skills with her commitment to streamlining processes and continually improving the client experience.

Sam loves connecting with clients and carers and witnessing the transformative effects that complementary therapies bring. Clients constantly comment on the warm and welcoming environment that Sam and the team creates, allowing them to take a big breath and just “be.” Seeing the gratitude and positive impact for those who come to Cancer Wellness Support is a daily joy for Sam.

She looks forward to welcoming you on your next visit.

Alyshia Denten

Penrith Wellness Centre Coordinator

After seeing the positive impact that working at Cancer Wellness Support had on her father (Kerry Denten, our IT Manager), Alyshia was inspired by his renewed enthusiasm for his work, the deep sense of purpose he’d discovered, and his joy in working with an incredible team. 

With twelve years of experience in the beauty industry and seeking a role that offered better work-life balance while still having meaningful purpose, Alyshia decided to apply when an opportunity in Client Services arose.

Now, as the Wellness Centre Coordinator at Penrith, she warmly greets all visitors, creates a calm and nurturing environment for clients and carers, and supports therapists and everyone who comes through the doors.

Alyshia also actively promotes CWS across the local community, building partnerships and connecting with organisations like Mt Wilga Private Rehabilitation Hospital to raise awareness of service offerings and broaden their access to more intensive programs.

With her extensive experience as a beauty therapist and managing a thriving clinic, Alyshia brings her strengths of client-focused service, people management, education, and relationship building to the Penrith Wellness Centre. Alyshia’s passion for helping people feel good in their own skin shines through in her support for our clients and carers. Alyshia empowers everyone to embrace self-care and complementary therapies during post-cancer, post-chemotherapy, and post-radiotherapy recovery, helping them regain confidence and feel good about themselves.

Alyshia loves the incredible group of people in her team and the joy of seeing clients and carers receive the care, treatment, and support they need. She proudly shares and reminds everyone that CWS extends support beyond just the person living with cancer to all carers and the whole family unit. She finds deep fulfilment in the positive impact CWS has, and is honoured to provide a sense of community to those who may not have family or support nearby.

Next time you pop into the Penrith Wellness Centre, Alyshia will be there to greet you with a big smile!

Carolyn Wilkinson

Leaura Wellness Centre Coordinator

Joining the team in March 2024, Carolyn was drawn to Cancer Wellness Support’s person-centred affordable care and their focus on wellness and wholeness, which aligns deeply with her personal values. 

Having spent eight years as the Palliative Care Volunteer Coordinator at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District, Carolyn had seen firsthand how volunteers would bring clients to CWS, providing her with a solid familiarity with the therapies available and the impact of the team. She admired how the Client Services team gently made space for people during some of the hardest times in their lives, and always thought it would be a nice place to work.

Working full-time, she felt the universe aligned perfectly when a part-time position offering an ideal balance became available at the Robyn Yates Centre in Leura. Carolyn hadn’t realised the extent of her exhaustion from many years in an intense role until CWS’s supportive leadership team, serene environment and reduced work hours allowed her to recharge and focus on her own self-care.

Now, as the Wellness Centre Coordinator at Leura, Carolyn warmly greets every visitor, creating a comfortable and nurturing space. Bringing her extensive knowledge of the healthcare system and as a qualified pastoral carer, Carolyn has a strong capacity for empathy and connection, helping everyone feel safe and welcome.

Carolyn also works as an intake therapist one day per week, with her natural curiosity assisting clients and carers to feel empowered to make their own informed choices for the next steps in their cancer journey. She is passionate about bringing ideas to life, particularly around Client Services initiatives and process improvement.

She is grateful to be part of an incredible Client Services team of four unique individuals united in their commitment to educating and empowering clients and carers and providing high-quality, personalised and adaptable care.

Carolyn treasures the moments when she can be exactly who someone needs, knowing she’s made a real difference in their day.

Connie Ray

Operations Support & Resident Housekeeper

Even if you’ve never met Connie, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the difference her presence makes at Cancer Wellness Support.

Initially a regular visitor to our Op Shops, Connie has worked with Cancer Wellness Support since February 2018. As our Operations Support and Resident Housekeeper, Connie plays a key role in ensuring the Robyn Yates Centre is always pristine and beautifully presented. 

Using natural and environmentally-friendly cleaning products, Connie ensures that every corner is spotless, inviting and comfortable for everyone. As a natural nurturer, she brings life to the space with elegant flower arrangements from the gardens, lovingly cares for indoor plants, and keeps the refreshment station thoughtfully stocked, ensuring a warm, welcoming and homely haven.

Thanks to her attention to detail and deep familiarity with the Robyn Yates Centre, Connie proactively identifies maintenance and WHS needs, coordinating with the Operations team regular repairs and upkeep for our heritage-listed building to ensure it remains safe and well-cared-for.

Before joining Cancer Wellness Support, Connie worked as an aged care nurse and AIN for nearly a decade. After taking time to focus on her wellbeing, she made the intentional decision to pursue a role that combined grounding, service-oriented work with her skills and passions.

Connie has had a long standing interest in complementary therapies, using them throughout her life. Her role at CWS perfectly blends her healthcare background, passion for complementary therapies, and natural ability to create warm and beautiful spaces.

Beyond her housekeeping responsibilities, Connie supports our clients, carers, and the broader CWS team wherever needed, whether assisting Client Services with overflow administration or helping with event set up.

Connie finds joy in hearing from clients and carers who say the Robyn Yates Centre is a place they look forward to visiting. She takes pride in helping create a homely environment full of care, respect, and understanding.

She feels honoured to work in such a beautiful environment, saying “Working with the CWS team is an absolute blessing. It is incredibly rare to find such a loving and supportive community, and I am very proud of the work we do helping local people living with cancer and their families.”

Tania Sloan

Executive Assistant to the CEO & Board

Tania has been an integral part of the Cancer Wellness Support community since 2015 as a therapist, client and team member.

She first connected with CWS as a Reiki practitioner, participating in open days and attending community meetings. In 2019, her connection deepened when she was diagnosed with breast cancer and became a client. To this day, Tania values the ongoing care she receives, attending her weekly lymphoedema  massage before starting her workday.

Having navigated a lengthy IVF journey, a breast cancer diagnosis, and managing diabetes, Tania has personally experienced the transformative power of complementary therapies. With a professional background as an executive assistant, her health journey inspired her to transition into the wellness industry, where she could combine her skills with her passion for helping others.

When Deborah Shepherd was appointed as CEO of Cancer Wellness Support in late 2022, this was celebrated by Tania, who had worked with her at Embrace Life Festivals, Gratitude, and SoulAdvisor, and knew the incredible impact Deborah has on everything she does.

In 2024, the opportunity to further contribute arose when CWS was recruiting for an Executive Assistant to the CEO and Board. Tania successfully stepped into this role, bringing a vision to build on the foundations established by Robyn Yates OAM and enhancing CWS policies, procedures and systems to lay the groundwork for future growth.

Drawing from her own cancer journey, Tania brings a deep understanding of how complementary therapies provide relief and healing. She is also well-versed in the practicalities of cancer care, from the benefits of therapeutic treatments to the beneficial use of compression garments. A sense of service drives Tania, and she finds immense fulfillment in supporting our purpose.

She loves working in the homely atmosphere of the Robyn Yates Centre, nestled in the beautiful Blue Mountains within a heritage-listed building. Despite the residual trauma of her cancer journey, she credits the therapists and team at CWS for their care and understanding.

Full of heart and compassion, Tania loves the calm, supportive, and non-judgmental spirit of CWS and the team’s dedication to helping local people living with cancer and their families.