Abbey spent four weeks with Dreams2Live4. During her internship she worked with some of the most renowned journalists in Australia, secured some incredible donated prizes, put her writing skills to the test, worked on her first big, successful event, and has made us super proud of her lasting contributions to Dreams2Live4.

What motivated you or inspired you to intern at Dreams2Live4?

When I decided to do the Boston University Sydney Internship Program, I had absolutely no idea what I wanted to do. Kerry Seymour-Smith, an active and incredible Dreams2Live4 supporter, was my internship advisor and when she mentioned Dreams2Live4 I was hooked! I loved the idea that I would be able to give back while I was in Australia and feel as though I was a part of something bigger than myself!

Was there one dream that stood out for you in particular?

I was able to accompany Jacqueline during her dream to meet the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. She was so moved by meeting her favorite team that she was brought to tears. It was then that I realized the true magic Dreams2Live4 brings to people’s lives. The Bulldogs were so kind and willing to chat and meet Jacqueline, and you could just see how overwhelming it was to have her dream realized and how much it truly meant to her. Seeing the tears of happiness streaming down her face showed me how these dreams can truly be one of the most special moments of a dreamers life.

What has been the most enjoyable part of your work with D2L4?

The most enjoyable part of my work at Dreams2Live4 has been helping with the 'Lunch with David Gyngell 'event. Not only was the event itself incredibly fun and exciting, but it was also so great to learn how to plan large-scale events. It was so rewarding to see the guests moved by Dreams2Live4  and the stories of our dreamers.

Do you have any personal experience with cancer? Has anyone you know been impacted by cancer?

Both of my grandfathers have battled cancer. While one has been cancer free for 5 years, the other is still fighting it. In addition, some of my very good friend’s mothers have battled breast cancer. Both of these experiences made me want to be a part of Dreams2Live4 even more. As they are all adults, I loved the idea that Dreams2Live4 helps people like them. These people in my life and all of the dreamers constantly inspire me with how they have lived their life and the people whom they have touched. People like them, who are facing the hardest battle of their life, so deserve to have a dream come true and I am so glad I can be a part of the process!

What has been the most emotional/difficult part of the process?

The most emotional part for me is simply reading the dreams and the stories of those who so desperately need the hope that Dreams2Live4 offers. One of my main jobs at Dreams was to write up many of the dreams for our website, and while it was an incredible job, it definitely led to a lot of tears! At first, I was a little embarrassed to be in the office crying (totally not normal) but soon realized how special it is to be in a place and a part of something that brings about so many raw emotions and can really tear at your heartstrings. There have been a few dreams that everyone in the office has read about and the entire office turns into a basket of tears! But wow, am I thankful that no one is calloused by the work we do, and everyone still understands the incredible importance of our work. Seeing how much Lou, Meaghan, Annabel, Margie and Olivia really care just reinforces the importance of the work and that it is done in the best way possible. These are all incredible women who care so much and always selflessly work their hardest to care for others!

Would you recommend it to others?

I would definitely recommend Dreams2Live4 to others! I was able to gain so much hands-on-experience in the work place that I would not have been able to get at so many other places. In addition, the atmosphere at the Dreams2Live4 office made me love coming into work everyday! Being around such amazing women is infectious and so wonderful. I have learned so much in my short time here and wish that everyone would be able to get the same experience I did!