My story

Hi, My name is Jennifer Lucas, I am 21 years old and was diagnosed with an early stage of Her-2 Breast Cancer in June last year (2007). As there is no family history, it was a complete shock to everyone including the doctors, surgeons, medical staff, friends and certainly myself and family. One of the doctors described it as “being struck by lighting; a one in a million chance.” My Mum, Dad, two younger sisters and long term boyfriend have been extremely supportive. I have had surgery to remove the cancer and at the same time I had a reconstruction (latissimus dorsi back flap). Before starting chemotherapy I tried to save some eggs incase my fertility doesn’t return however this was unsuccessful and probably was the most devastated I've felt throughout this whole ordeal as I’ve always dreamed of being a mum one day.

I began chemo in Hamilton in August while continuing with my Physiotherapy studies in Auckland.  It has been an extremely trying time, however I managed to pass with all A-'s. Due to the type of breast cancer I have I need a treatment called Heceptin. This is a prescription medicine used to treat early breastcancer when the Her-2 protein is present. My doctors have told me that I am only eligible for 9 weeks of Herceptin treatment. Where clinical studies show, having it for a year gives you a better chance of making a full recovery. I joined with BCAC to get signatures in support for funding herceptin, and managed to get 8,000 signatures in 4 days. Unfortunately it could take up to 18mths to go through parliament and I need to continue with my treatment in February ’08.  It is going to cost apx $72,000 (GST inc) to pay for the rest of the treatment. I have organised several fundraising events so far including a concert, squash tournament, hair shaving event and more.

I think having a positive attitude has been the key to getting through this and if I had a choice I wouldn’t change it for anything. I have looked at all the good things that have come from this, like learning about myself and realising my potential, I’ve also met some really amazing and inspirational people. I was having chemo the other day and talking to a man that was fighting 3 different types of cancer and we both agreed that we could tick the life experience box of our lives.

I hope my story makes people aware that it can happen to anyone but that you have to take life as it comes and look at the bright side of every situation, even though sometimes it does not present itself obviously, don’t give up on looking for it because it almost certainly will always be there.

Jen :)