Rhiannon’s story: Diagnosed with breast cancer just days before Christmas   

Imagine this: it’s almost Christmas. You’re in the midst of festive preparations – shopping for gifts, wrapping up work, and eagerly anticipating time with family and friends. Excitement is building.  

But then, you notice something: a small lump in your breast. Your excitement soon fades into worry. 

This is how Rhiannon’s story with cancer began.  

Hoping the lump was nothing, Rhiannon visited her doctor, who promptly arranged for an ultrasound and biopsy to put her mind at ease before the Christmas festivities. 

However, Rhiannon received a call that would change everything.  

Her GP delivered the heartbreaking news: she had breast cancer* at only 32-years-old. 

After meeting with oncologists and a surgeon, Rhiannon was relieved to learn that the cancer had not spread from her breast. However, with a 1-year-old son at home, her anxiety still took hold.  

Rhiannon felt compelled to ask her surgeon, “Am I going to die?”  

The surgeon’s answer was simple but reassuring: “You are not going to die.”  

Fertility and treatment decisions 

One of the hardest decisions Rhiannon faced was how her treatment might affect her fertility. 

The doctors informed her that the treatment required could impact her ability to have children in the future. When given the option to preserve her fertility, Rhiannon’s response was certain: “No, I just want the cancer gone.” 

However, her doctor encouraged her to consider all options carefully.  

After much thought, Rhiannon opted to undergo an egg retrieval procedure in early January 2024, a step that would give her the opportunity to preserve her fertility while focusing on her cancer treatment. 

Challenges and the emotional toll of diagnosis 

Emotional support was crucial for Rhiannon. She noticed early on that she struggled to control her thoughts and began seeing an oncology-specific psychologist weekly.  

This specialised support provided much-needed empathy and understanding. This meant that Rhiannon could cope with the overwhelming emotions she faced dealing with her diagnosis and treatment.  

Despite four rounds of chemotherapy, the lump continued to grow, which prompted the need for a double mastectomy followed by 12 additional rounds of chemotherapy and 25 rounds of radiation.  

Although this was a terrifying next step, it was critical and revealed a large 4.8cm tumour which was successfully removed.  

The power of support  

As a 32-year-old with no family history of cancer, Rhiannon was shocked by her diagnosis.  

However, throughout her breast cancer treatment, Rhiannon found invaluable support and information from Cancer Council NSW. The pamphlets and booklets provided at both hospitals she visited covered a wide range of topics, from finances to sexual health.  

Her experience taught her the importance of self-advocacy, often asserting herself with doctors when things didn’t feel right. 

“Absolutely advocate for yourself,” says Rhiannon.  “Ask questions, you’re not a burden. These health professionals are here to help you.”   

Rhiannon also emphasises the importance of staying active during treatment.   

She approached her second round of chemo with a determination to maintain her normal life, which made the process feel more manageable.  

Although it was an emotional experience, Rhiannon continues to approach life with a ‘glass half full’ attitude, determined to keep moving forward. 

Rhiannon now shares her story to raise awareness about breast cancer and to offer support to others facing similar challenges.  

Her experience has taught her that, while breast cancer can be an overwhelming experience, it is possible to find strength, seek help, and stay positive in the face of adversity. 

Looking back, Rhiannon notes the numerous medical appointments she attended. She says, “I had 35 appointments in my first month after diagnosis and since had 117 needles. It felt like a full-time job.”

Despite the challenges, Rhiannon’s determination has led her to share her story and advocate for cancer awareness and early detection, hoping to help others navigate similar experiences.

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Documentary family photographer, Jacqui Turner (https://www.runningunderthesprinkler.com) spent the year documenting Rhiannon’s cancer and has provided the accompanying photographs.   

*Breast cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the breast. It usually starts in the lining of the breast ducts or lobules and can grow into cancerous (malignant) tumours. 

For more information, visit our breast cancer page.  Or if you, or someone you know is living with cancer call us for free support and help on 13 11 20.