IN PHOTO: John and Sandy Maybury

SANDY MAYBURY

A Peaceful Journey

Sandy first started walking 24 years ago to support her best friend after she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and she and her husband John have continued their support and dedication through walking, sponsorship, and donating proceeds to Rays of Hope from their annual Maybury Material Handling Car Show, held at their business in East Longmeadow, Mass. In addition to showing up at a past Rays of Hope event on a pink moped, John also shows his support on the Baystate Health Foundation Board of Trustees, helping guide the important fundraising initiatives at Baystate Health, including Rays of Hope. 

Their relationship to Rays of Hope took on a new meaning recently when Sandy was diagnosed with breast cancer. With the strong support of John and her family behind her, Sandy began treatment at the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care. 

 “The word I would use to describe my journey with Baystate Health has been ‘peaceful.’ There have been tears and fear, but everyone has always made me feel safe and taken care of—from my surgeon, my oncologist, their teams, those who welcomed me with each visit, my nurses, and those who brought me chocolate pudding and ginger ale during each treatment,” shared Sandy. “I couldn’t have made it through without each and every one of them and they each hold a special place in my heart.” 

Sandy has also leaned on support from the Rays of Hope community. 

“I have made many friends through Rays of Hope, and I’m blessed to be part of this organization,” said Sandy. “There are so many warriors out there that have either gone through this journey, lost loved ones, or are going through the journey now that I hope I can be there for.” 

“To me, Rays of Hope is family, love, strength, and compassion,” shared Sandy. “I want to bring that feeling of hope to others.”