Andrea Fairbairn is passionate about providing resources, support and hope to people affected by cancer.
Andrea was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 and again in 2011. She shares what she learnt from those experiences to make cancer easier for others. Her vision is that life should be as joyful and peaceful as possible during and after cancer treatment. And for those fortunate enough to survive, cancer in retrospect may be a positive life event, though it rarely feels like it at the time.
She is a Samoan-Kiwi writer, international aid worker, policy analyst and cancer advocate. Andrea also runs Joy Journeys and Experiences for people affected by cancer and has two websites: The Joy Agency and Breast Cancer Nirvana. Both provide resources for people to live with joy and peace during and after cancer.
Andrea lives in Wellington, New Zealand and has previously lived in Brazil, Canada and Azerbaijan. She loves to travel as it stretches her to have adventures, learn languages, learn about history, and to meet new people. She is also passionate about yoga, creative projects and art.
Andrea believes in assisting people to achieve their potential. She has a BA in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Development Studies and has worked in the international aid and development field for two decades. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer, Andrea started in a whole new direction of self-care, learning and contribution.
Our vision
Cancer can make life rocky. So we think that there should be joy in the rocks. Our vision is that life should be as joyful and peaceful as possible during and after cancer. And for those fortunate enough to survive, cancer in retrospect may be a positive life event, though it rarely feels like it at the time.
The Joy Agency:
helps people find joy, peace and inspiration during and after cancer, and
helps people to bounce back and recover to happiness, health and wellbeing.
“My mission is to share tips and advice as to how I’ve experienced joy and peace during and after cancer treatment through: things I love to do, travel, adventures, books, journals, coaching, inspiration and healing, in the hope to make the experience easier for others. ” Andrea.