Support people affected by cancer in Gisborne, Hawke's Bay, Manawatū, Whanganui, and Taranaki
Two years ago, I was on my way to my mum’s birthday when I crashed my car. I went home to use a different car only to go off the road again. I’d lost everything, I didn’t know who I was or where I was, nothing. I’d had a stroke three years prior, so my family thought perhaps I’d had another one, but once I got to the hospital it was a different story. My blood pressure was over 200, I went through many hours of testing to figure out what was going on. That’s when they discovered a tumour growing in my brain.
The hospital gave me two weeks to prepare my affairs and tidy up any loose ends, this was it. I was taken to Wellington for an emergency surgery to attempt to remove the tumour. I was warned I may never be able to speak again if I woke up. That was terrifying, and when I went under the thought of never being able to speak to my family again sat with me.
When I woke up I was able to speak, the relief was overwhelming. The operation had been a success. I was left with 33 staples on the left side of my head, but the tumours in my brain were gone. Then started the radiation treatment. This is when I was introduced to the Cancer Society, who have been wonderful. They provided a whole range of support, from driving me to and from my radiation therapy sessions, to free counselling for me and my family, to massage services which have been excellent. I thought all I’d need now was a bit of help to get my reading and writing back and I’d be sweet. Back to work in no time.
Unfortunately, that isn’t the end of my story. Since the surgery the doctors have discovered more cancer, two tumours in the back of my head, one under my lung, some in my lymph nodes around my neck, and in my ribs. For me cancer is a death sentence, but I’m still living. I’m taking the time to see people, old friends some of whom I haven’t seen for 30 years, workmates, and extended family. Many of my friends when I talk to them about what I’m going through find it tough, but I make sure I don’t leave until they’re laughing again. I try to keep a positive outlook and enjoy the life I have left. I’m grateful for those around me, my family, the hospital teams, and the Cancer Society.
The journey I’m on would have been worse without the Cancer Society. Having people to talk to with similar experiences helps share the burden. Their transport team have been invaluable taking me to and from treatment, and the massage services have helped with the pain and discomfort.
If you are thinking of making a donation all I would say is go for it, please. It is so worthwhile. They rely on donations to provide these critical, free services to people like me.
Your generosity can make an incredible difference.
Warm regards,
Mac
