Our story

 

Abundance of the Heart was born from the spirit of Nancy Carrara — a woman whose cozy little shop in Hinsdale overflowed with treasures for the home and heart. It was more than a boutique; it was a gathering place, always alive with warmth, charm, and connection.

The Journey Behind Abundance of the Heart

I was just eight years old when my mom, Nancy, was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was only 34. For ten long years, she faced her illness with courage, grace, and quiet strength. I saw her struggles. I saw her tears. And I saw her hope — even in the midst of the toughest trials.

During those years, my mom poured her heart into her cozy little shop in Hinsdale, which she named Abundance of the Heart. It was part boutique, part gathering place — a warm haven filled with furniture, knickknacks, and handpicked treasures for both the home and the heart. Friends would often stop in just to feel her kindness, to share a laugh, or to take home a piece of her “always giving” heart.

We never spoke openly about her illness or what the future might hold. So when she passed away shortly after my high school graduation, I was completely unprepared. The moment I learned she was gone, I felt shocked, lost, and alone. Life around me kept moving, but for me, everything had stopped. My sister and I tried to make sense of it all, but without the guidance or support we needed, the loss felt even heavier.

Then, in October of 2023, life came full circle. I walked into my yearly mammogram distracted by the busyness of the day — never imagining that this appointment would change everything. When I heard the words “You have breast cancer,” I was stunned. Even now, it still feels surreal.

But I knew one thing instantly: my children would not experience the same silence I had. I shared the news with all four of them openly, answering their questions honestly and making sure they felt supported and informed every step of the way.

I chose a bilateral mastectomy to remove the cancer and give myself the best chance at moving forward. The recovery was hard — physically, emotionally, and mentally — but with faith, love, and strength, we made it through together as a family.

Out of this journey, and in honor of my mom’s shop and her life, Abundance of the Heart was reborn — not as a boutique, but as a foundation. Our mission is to support Wellness House and the families who are facing, fighting, and healing from cancer, so no one has to walk their journey alone.

Because abundance isn’t just what we have — it’s what we give from the heart.