Cancer Survivor Shares Journey, Highlights Need for Timely Care

Mrs. Stratford, a 45-year-old woman from New Zealand, was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer in 2022 after her first mammogram. The diagnosis came as a shock; she was informed that she had stage four cancer, which had already spread to her lymph nodes and lungs. The news was devastating, leaving her feeling as though she had no options left.

After receiving her diagnosis, her surgeon recommended a visit to an oncologist but was unable to provide any immediate treatment options. “I left there thinking there were no options, and I was going to have to kind of say my goodbyes,” she recalled. Although the appointment was set for about eight weeks later, Mrs. Stratford and her husband, Chris, were fortunate to have health insurance. A friend encouraged her to seek private care, which allowed her to see an oncologist within a week.

Timely access to treatment proved crucial for her recovery. “Mine’s like a really aggressive one so delays can impact your outcomes,” she said. Mrs. Stratford underwent 18 weeks of chemotherapy, supplemented with targeted therapies including Herceptin and Perjeta. Her treatment journey has allowed her to witness significant milestones, such as her children finishing secondary school, and she now runs a consulting agency. Reflecting on her experience, she stated, “I’m a little bit broken, but I’m still leading a good and happy life.”

Originally from the United Kingdom, Mrs. Stratford had planned a family trip back home around the time of her diagnosis. The cancellation of this trip weighed heavily on her; she worried that she might never see her family again. Fortunately, the effectiveness of her treatment enabled her family to eventually make the journey.

A recent report from the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ highlighted critical gaps in care for individuals diagnosed with incurable advanced breast cancer. Released to coincide with World Cancer Day, the report revealed that delays in diagnosis significantly increase the risks of shorter survival, limited treatment options, and a diminished quality of life. In New Zealand, more than 350 individuals are diagnosed with advanced breast cancer each year. This condition, also known as metastatic, stage 4, or secondary breast cancer, occurs when the disease spreads to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, or brain.

Many cases of advanced breast cancer arise when earlier-stage cancer returns after initial treatment. Some cancer cells can remain undetected and later metastasize, underscoring the importance of regular follow-ups. According to Mehdi Shahbazpour, head of research and strategic programmes at the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ, advanced breast cancer does not have to be an immediately terminal diagnosis. “While it can’t usually be cured, earlier diagnosis, timely access to care, and treatment breakthroughs mean more people could live for years with advanced breast cancer as a manageable, chronic condition,” he stated.

The Breast Cancer Foundation NZ is calling on health decision-makers to develop a nationally consistent detection pathway for advanced breast cancer. They are also advocating for personalized, risk-based follow-up care following initial treatment for early-stage breast cancer. Addressing these gaps is essential to improving outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for individuals diagnosed with this challenging disease.