This week’s St. John’s public council meeting began with a rousing round of applause for the return of Councillor Debbie Hanlon.
Mayor Danny Breen welcomed all councillors to the meeting before, to the surprise of many, welcoming Hanlon as well, albeit by virtual means.
It was Hanlon’s first public meeting since being stricken with a sudden and aggressive form of cancer more than six months ago, overcoming infections and fevers along the way.
Hanlon’s appearance did not surprise her council colleagues, whom she met with in person earlier in the day, admitting it was a busy one.
“It’s been a very long day for me, being my first time out since February,” she told the public meeting.
“I did attend our private meeting in person, and that was overwhelming, and thank you for your support. I will have more to say as I go forward, but I’m still in my treatments and I’ll have an update for the public in the next couple of weeks. And thank you to everyone for all your love and support.”