Rallying Around Julie: Why all of us at Angel Wellness Retreat want to support our team mate and Beloved Essex Community Hero

Known to so many across Essex for her kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to helping others, Julie has spent her life caring for people in every sense of the word. From her years working as a blue light ambulance driver to helping individuals gain confidence and independence as a driving instructor, Julie has touched countless lives throughout the community.

Now, Julie is facing one of the toughest challenges of her life: a battle with cancer.

So our fearless leader, Victoria, has sprung into action and is doing what she does best, looking after one of her own. Vic has spearheaded a GoFundMe campaign to help raise funds for private treatment that could give Julie more precious time with her family and loved ones.

“Julie has spent her entire life putting other people first,” says Victoria. “She has cared for so many people over the years, often during the most difficult moments of their lives. When someone like Julie needs support, you show up for them. That’s what community is about.”

Since launching, the fundraiser has already seen an incredible outpouring of generosity, with donations and messages of support flooding in from friends, clients, former colleagues, and people across Essex who have been impacted by Julie’s warmth and kindness over the years.

For Victoria, this fundraiser is deeply personal.

“Julie isn’t just an employee — she’s part of our Angel family,” she explains. “She brings so much care, positivity, and compassion into the retreat every time she is here, always smiling and positive. We hate that she’s going through dealing with cancer. So I wanted to create an opportunity for people to show Julie their gratitude and donate money to GoFundMe so Julie can pursue potentially lifesaving private treatment.”

The fundraising efforts aim to help Julie access private treatment and specialist care, easing some of the emotional and financial burden on her and her family during this incredibly difficult time.

But beyond the financial support, Victoria says the campaign has become a powerful reminder of just how many lives Julie has touched.

“The response has been overwhelming in the most beautiful way,” Victoria says. “People want Julie to know that she is loved, valued, and not facing this alone.”

Angel Wellness Retreat is encouraging anyone who is able to support the fundraiser — whether through a donation or simply by sharing Julie’s story — to help spread the word and continue the momentum.

We have an ambitious goal to reach £45,000. In just a week, the Angel team have rallied £16,745. We ask all of you who are able to please donate, even if it is a small amount.

Every contribution, no matter the size, brings hope.

To support Julie’s fundraiser, please visit:
Julie’s GoFundMe