When Amigo was diagnosed with prostate cancer, his life suddenly became much more complicated.
Living in a supported community residential home on the West Coast, Amigo faced a daunting journey that would require multiple hospital appointments, specialist treatment in Christchurch, and weeks away from the familiarity and comfort of home. Thankfully, he wasn’t alone.
With the support of his dedicated Pact care team and Cancer Society Navigator, Maree Yaxley, Amigo was able to access the treatment he urgently needed. As he travelled between Hokitika and Christchurch for radiation therapy, the Cancer Society provided a welcoming place to stay at the Canterbury Cancer Centre in Christchurch.
Because Amigo required around-the-clock support from his Pact care workers throughout treatment, two adjoining rooms were arranged so his support worker could be close by whenever he needed assistance. While Pact covered the cost of the support worker’s room without hesitation, donor-funded Cancer Society accommodation ensured Amigo himself had a safe, comfortable place to stay during one of the most challenging times of his life.
For people like Amigo, cancer is about much more than a medical diagnosis. It can mean long distances, and time away from
family, friends, and familiar surroundings.
Today, Amigo has now been told he is officially in remission, something he never doubted.
“I had 31 days of treatment in Christchurch and then the hard part began, waiting for the results and another blood test. When I was told I was in remission, I was over the moon. I’m definitely going to celebrate, because I was the only one who was confident from the start that I’d be in remission after treatment,” says Amigo.
Cancer Navigator Maree Yaxley fully understood the challenges that were presented when Amigo was first diagnosed. Together with the Pact support team, they all swung into action to make sure Amigo had all the necessary supports and information that would help him through this difficult journey.
Maree says, “Amigo was amazingly positive throughout his treatment and his recovery post-treatment and it was a pleasure to be able to support him through this time.”
It’s safe to say that Amigo is now well on his way to making a complete recovery, thankful for the wonderful support he has had.
“A big thank you to Maree, the Cancer Society and Pact for all the support provided for to me during my treatment.”
As we head ever closer to Christmas, we hope you'll join in the spirit of the festive season by making a donation today so that we continue to be a place and a presence in the lives of people going through cancer. Thank you.
On behalf of the Cancer Society Southern team, we wish you and your whānau a joyful and peaceful Christmas.
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