Mother of Autistic Son Advocates for Life-Saving Cancer Drug

A single mother diagnosed with Stage 4 bowel cancer is urgently campaigning for access to an unfunded, life-prolonging drug. Jackie Robertson, a resident of Cambridge, is determined to secure more time with her 14-year-old son, Zac, who is nonverbal and autistic. Each day presents a struggle to balance providing Zac with the support he needs while advocating for her own life.

Robertson received her shock diagnosis in late 2023, when she was a healthy 46-year-old. Since then, she has transformed her personal battle into a campaign for broader changes in healthcare. She is a vocal advocate for lowering the bowel cancer screening age and increasing access to essential medications that could help patients like herself.

Advocacy for Change

The challenges facing those with bowel cancer have become more pronounced for Robertson as she navigates her treatment options. The drug she is fighting for is not currently covered by public funding, leaving her in a precarious position. “I want to be here for Zac,” she shared in an interview with local media. “Every moment is crucial, and I need every tool possible to fight this disease.”

Robertson’s condition underscores a larger issue within the healthcare system, where access to life-saving treatments can hinge on funding decisions. She believes that if the screening age were lowered, earlier detection could significantly improve outcomes for many patients. By sharing her story, she hopes to inspire others facing similar struggles and to push for policy changes that could benefit countless individuals.

The Path Ahead

As she continues her advocacy, Robertson remains focused on her primary goal: securing more time with her son. The emotional toll of her diagnosis is compounded by the daily responsibilities of motherhood, especially for a child with special needs. “It’s a juggling act,” she explained. “I want to give Zac the childhood he deserves while also doing everything I can to fight for my life.”

Robertson’s campaign highlights the urgent need for increased funding and awareness surrounding bowel cancer treatment options. With her determination and resilience, she aims to not only improve her own circumstances but also to pave the way for others in similar situations.

Her story resonates beyond personal struggle, touching on critical issues of healthcare access and the importance of patient advocacy. As she continues to fight for herself and her son, her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the human impact of cancer and the need for systemic change in health policies.