Liz’s Story

I have been a member of the Thursday Girls group since February 2019. It has taken so long for me to actually write this and I’m not sure why! I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012. I found this a shock but I was optimistic.

I went through all the treatment – lumpectomy, chemo & radio. Along the way I had a few complications but when I had finished all the treatment I went on a holiday to Tasmania and was optimistic that I was “cured” and would have no further problems! Famous last words – I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in April 2018.

I still remember the numbness and fear I felt during that time and waiting for all the test results. The cancer had spread to my abdomen. So I then had six months of chemo. I am having ongoing treatments that have had various results.

I was forced into early retirement which was difficult for me. I am a nurse and midwife.

I was born in the UK and completed all my training there. I spent a few years travelling and working. I met my Australian husband in the Middle East. We moved to the UK but eventually came and settled in Melbourne. We had a lovely son called Ian, unfortunately the marriage didn’t last and we divorced. I stayed in Australia because I love the country and am very close to my ex husband’s family. I have now lived in Australia for 34 years. My son is 32 years old and he along with his gorgeous partner are a great support.

I feel blessed as I have a great support network of friends. One friend I have lives in Gippsland and last year she spent about six months living with me. I also keep in touch with a few people from the UK. I have quite a large family who live in Denmark. This year I have had 5 groups of visitors from overseas stay with me.

I love the arts and enjoy visiting art galleries, plays, opera, musicals and stand up comedy. I try to keep busy and use distraction therapy. I also try and exercise and meditation is important to me. I have a gorgeous black Labrador  “Maggie” who is my constant companion.

Belonging to this group (of which I’m sure none of us would choose to join) is very important  to me. My only regret is that I didn’t join sooner!

Liz,  November 2019