In 2019, Melanie learnt that her breast cancer had spread to her spine, liver and left lung. Incurable. Terminal.
At the age of 41, she was facing a conversation no one wants – to tell those you love that they are going to lose you...
“When I got my advanced breast cancer diagnosis, I was shocked, upset, angry and felt quite alone and also scared. I asked myself ‘Why me? What did I do to deserve this? What did I do wrong?’. It just seemed so unfair."
Two years on and Melanie still hasn’t found the right time to tell her children.
“I haven't told my children yet. They know it's come back but they don't know the prognosis. That conversation is hanging over me a lot. I’m just waiting for the right moment – not that there is ever a right time for that conversation. I don’t know how they’re going to take it, more so, how I’m going to take it. Probably a lot of tears.”
Each year, hundreds of Kiwi women and mums who are diagnosed with terminal breast cancer have to face this conversation. And tragically, too many have do it without the support of Sweet Louise.
This winter, please help provide the support a brave mum like Melanie needs to tell her children goodbye. Please send your donation by Friday 6 August to help give Melanie the strength and confidence to keep pushing. To make the most of the time she has left with her children.