Brisbane nurse and mother of four, Alison, was diagnosed five years ago with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). A very rare mutation in her DNA (called ALK) means her lung cells make too many copies of themselves. These cells are cancerous and can spread to other parts of her body.
To celebrate five years of survivorship, Alison is challenging herself to climb Mount Kosciusko in March as part of the Kosi Challenge.
“Reaching five years from my initial diagnosis is a big milestone for me. My friend Anita inspired me to do this; I met her four years ago through RCA. She has the same rare cancer as me and has done the Kosi Challenge before. I wanted to do the climb with her this year to recognise our friendship, because it’s been so important to me. Both of us having a rare cancer has been a big part of that.
“It's been absolutely wonderful knowing Anita and having her support. We’ve become such good friends because we’re in the same boat; we know what it’s like. We’ve had lots of great times but can also share the sad times.”
Alison and Anita will be joined by Alison’s sister, Helen and husband, Alan.
“My sister has been one of my best supporters. She wasn’t sure she could do it, but she has risen to the challenge and has started training and raising money. I try to encourage her and say, ‘If I can do it, you can do it!’ My husband Alan is coming too – he’s been the best support.”
While a targeted therapy has kept Alison’s cancer at bay for the last few years, she recently learned that the mutation has progressed in her brain.
“It’s really tough knowing there is no cure. But I have started a new targeted therapy and I am hopeful. One of my strategies for coping is being grateful every day and getting out and enjoying nature. My father is an adventurer and I think I have that spirit in me too. I love the outdoors, and I love doing things that are a little bit of a challenge. Sometimes when you think you can’t do something, or you’re not really sure, you just have to give it a try. That’s my attitude to life in general. Although my brain is not working 100 per cent, the rest of it can get me up that hill.”
“Sharing this experience with those who have helped me get to five years is what motivates me now and will into the future. RCA has also helped me along the way, and I am grateful for their support. I know that Kate and Richard have their own personal story and motivation for starting RCA. They’re just so determined; they work so hard, and I’m just amazed by what they do. I am really happy to help support their work in this way.”
