It is with a heavy heart we announce Cat sadly lost her battle to Breast Cancer a few weeks ago. The love and support generated from your donations did not go in vain as they not only contributed to her unfunded treatments but also filled her last few months with so much joy from your generosity. The remaining funds have gone to her husband Nathan and their 2 children. X
I wanted to start by saying a huge thank you to everyone who has donated. To those I know well, to those who know my friends and family and to those whose paths I have only crossed briefly, your donation means the world to me and my family, so thank you.
An update of sorts...
Its been a rough few months to be honest. I spent most of July sick with chemo followed so closely by COVID and then some pretty severe reactions to the alternative drugs I'm trying.
August came with the news that the chemo I was on wasn't working, 1 line of treatment down, which in the world of triple negative cancer is a pretty big deal.
My cancer had progressed in both my liver and bones and is now also presenting itself in my peritoneal lining. Its ok if you have to google that, I did too.
The CT scan also showed fluid around my heart, which was downplayed to me, and then turned pretty quickly into an emergency run to the hospital to have that drained. The jury is still out on whether this was cancer or COVID related as the fluid results were inconclusive, so for peace of mind we'll go with COVID.
The next BEST option for me was to try an unfunded drug in NZ called Trodelvy. This drug is cutting edge world wide and although it is absolutely brutal, it is achieving some good results overseas. We decided to give this ago and I had my first infusion on the 24th of August. I was expecting to be pretty quickly wrapped around the toilet floor and was pleasantly surprised this wasn't the case for me. However, 48 hours later my stomach started to balloon and within 5 days I was carrying around a 9months pregnant belly, inverted tummy button and all. Last Tuesday this was drained - 3.5L of fluid removed, but sadly the fluid has returned and I find myself back in hospital with a huge stomach again, waiting on the next drain. I haven't been able to have my 2nd infusion of Trodelvy as we have to assess now whether my poor liver has the capacity to metabolise this drug. Its been a roller coaster of emotion and further delays and I have everything crossed that today becomes a good day with a successful drain and I can go home.
I try very hard to remain positive and see each of these hurdles as exactly that. We will find a drug that will work for me and hopefully it is this one, once we sort out the dosage.
Again, thank you for your donation, your messages, your love, your support- not only to me but to Nathan and our wider immediate families. We're all in this together and still remain positive.
We love you Cat and are praying that these hurdles are mere bumps, and this drug will be successful for you. All our love to you Cat and your Beautiful Family. You are in our thoughts and hearts. xxxxx
Sending you love and hugs - you are a wonder woman!
You are in the thoughts of so many people. You are not alone. I hope it gives you some peace and comfort. ❤🌹❤ Aunty P
Hi Cat. I think of you often and am inspired by your positivity and strength. You are an amazing young woman! Big hugs to you especially and your family. Love Sheryl.M.
I am so very sorry to hear this devastating news. I felt a special bond with Cat because we shared the same cancer and similar stories. My love goes out to her family. Rest in peace.
