Amy’s Story: A Rare and Unexpected Journey

Wednesday, April 22nd started out like any ordinary day for Amy. She was at work, happy and healthy—until around 10 a.m., when she was suddenly struck with severe, crippling stomach pains unlike anything she had ever felt. With Amy in tears, an ambulance was called.

Doctors initially suspected a gallbladder issue and sent her for a CT scan. Because of the unusual nature and location of her pain, they decided to scan her from the neck down.

The scan revealed a large tumour—measuring 7.5 cm—sitting between her lungs and above her heart. It was cancer, originating in her thymus gland, a small but vital part of the immune system most people have never heard of. This type of cancer is extremely rare, affecting only 1 in 1.3 million people.

Amy is now facing major surgery to remove the tumor. This will involve open chest surgery, a daunting and risky procedure. Weeks have passed waiting for decisions from a team of specialist surgeons, and the uncertainty continues. After surgery, her treatment plan remains unclear—she may need further treatment, potentially far from home.

Amy is not just a patient—she’s a loving mother, wife, daughter, and a friend to many. She was working two jobs while also home-schooling one of her children. A dedicated and giving member of the Marlborough community, Amy has always been there supported others. Now, it’s our turn to help support her.

This journey will be long, painful, and expensive—but with our help, Amy and her family won’t have to face it alone.