Veronica’s story: Finding light beyond the storm

Just 18 months after getting married, Veronica found herself struggling with a series of symptoms that she couldn’t explain.  

Despite eating well and being fit, she found herself overwhelmed by fatigue and that she couldn’t seem to shake the common cold.  

After checking in with her doctor, Veronica was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016. 

Cancer can ruin any plan 

Veronica says, “I was especially worried about my future. I’d only been married for 18 months at that point, and the diagnosis came at a time when we were considering having children.” 

Veronica’s diagnosis shattered her ideas of what the future held, and the clear road that once lay ahead suddenly seemed clouded with doubt and fear.  

“I was devastated, and for the first six weeks I wasn’t coping”, says Veronica. 

In order to get through those difficult weeks, Veronica sought support and guidance by turning to a counsellor. 

This decision proved invaluable, as the counsellor was able to help her navigate through the darkest times of her life. 

Fortunately, Cancer Council was able to subsidise this crucial service to make sure that Veronica received the support she needed. 

From enduring the storm to helping others 

As time went on, the aggressive nature of Veronica’s cancer led to a right breast mastectomy that also involved the removal of lymph nodes in her armpit.  

And with Veronica enduring six months of chemotherapy, five weeks of radiation, and then a year of immunotherapy, it was no easy road. 

It was during one of her surgeries that Veronica said to her surgeon “once the storm is over, I would like to try to support other people through their own cancer journey. I want to make my experience count for something”   

Veronica’s goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has access to the support, resources, and care they deserve.  

So, she trained to be an advocate in 2018 and worked on Cancer Council NSW’s Saving Life campaign in 2019, organising a forum in her hometown of Penrith.  

Working in advocacy during election time, Veronica saw the profound impact of advocacy work and the change it brings about. 

Walking towards a cancer free future 

By taking part in events like the 7 Bridges Walk, you too can contribute to a cancer free future and make a difference in the lives of people like Veronica.  

“I want people to know that every dollar goes so far when you raise funds this 7 Bridges Walk, because it does more than the ‘dollar value’. It reminds people like me that we are not alone in this.” says Veronica. 

The 7 Bridges Walk offers an experience of Sydney like never before, allowing participants to walk around the spectacular harbor and cross 7 iconic bridges. 

Take on the greatest walk of all, to raise funds for a cancer free future, and help people like Veronica. 

Whether you choose to join us for the 7 Bridges Walk on Sunday, 22 October, make sure you register online beforehand, protect yourself from the sun on the day, and tag us in your photos. 

For more information about breast cancer, please visit our breast cancer information page.  

If you have any questions, concerns or want more information about cancer, please contact our support line on 13 11 20.