We are so excited to be introducing you to weSPARK’s Development and Events Manager, Cheryll Puyot! Cheryll joined weSPARK in April of 2016 and since then has facilitated two weSPARK programs. In 2016, she helped encourage our guests to be more active by participating in her weekly walking class. Currently, she is leading our new program Healing in High Places, which takes our guests on a gentle hike in or around the San Fernando Valley. Healing in High Places is back this month so be sure to check it out in our new program schedule. Keep reading to find out more about Cheryll!

What is your role at weSPARK?

I am the Development and Events Manager. I organize and produce fundraising events, which includes our Celebrity Poker Tournament, Comedy Show, 5k Run/Walk and special movie screenings.

What attracted you to weSPARK? 

I feel my passion for better health and wellness coincides with weSPARK’s mission.  There is a strong sense of community at weSPARK and I am constantly learning from our staff, facilitators and guests.

You have helped develop a couple of our programs here at weSPARK, including a weekly walking class and our upcoming Healing and High Places hiking program at weSPARK. Can you tell us about these programs and your inspiration for their development?  

Our Program Director, Casey Hickey approached me with the wonderful idea of sharing my passion for hiking with our guests at weSPARK. Casey worked quickly in putting our first hike in the March calendar and I took the necessary steps to become CPR/First Aid certified. Hiking has transformed me both mentally and physically. In the past, I set mental limits in terms of what I was physically capable of accomplishing. After my first major hike in Kauai I felt unstoppable. I developed a strong sense of confidence and mental toughness that I attribute both to hiking. I want our guests to feel empowered and to know that they can accomplish anything. It made me so proud to see our guests challenge themselves during our first Healing and High Places hike.

What is one goal you have set for yourself and how do you hope to accomplish that in the future?

My one goal is to constantly step outside of my comfort zone. Every time I try something new (Solo travel, discovering a hiking trail, attending a networking event and not knowing anyone), I allow myself to be open to whatever experience arises and I am learning.  Stepping out of my comfort zone has ultimately helped me deal with change and to continuously challenge myself. Every month, there is at least one or two new items on my calendar that I have not yet experienced.

What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?

I love to be active with my friends. You can always catch us outside on a trail or attempting to learn hip-hop choreography. I also enjoy baking. Baking is a communal experience. When I bake, I always have the intent to share with my friends, family and coworkers. Knowing that what I am making will make other people happy is one of the warmest, fuzziest feelings there is.

How do you practice self-care?

I try to practice self-care on a daily basis by exercising – whether it be walking, hiking, dancing or boxing. Some days it might be 30 minutes, and other days it might be 60 to 90 minutes. Exercise allows me to detox, relax and focus on me. Going on morning walks before work, helps me maintain a positive outlook for the rest of my day. I cherish this time alone before all the hustle and bustle. I am a firm believer that in solitude, we discover what makes us feel alive.

weSPARK Cancer Support Center is located in Los Angeles and offers completely FREE programs, workshops, classes and individual therapies to cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones.  Remember to take a look at our monthly program schedule for more information about the services we offer.

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