Donna's story
Having had two sisters diagnosed with breast cancer, Donna was shocked and angry when it came for her too. Thankfully, regular screening meant it was caught early. Now, she’s passionate about encouraging others to get checked because she knows from experience that early detection saves lives.
I’m Donna, and I’m 68 years old. My journey has been shaped by both challenges and incredible support that has got me through them. Back in 2010, my husband suffered a brain haemorrhage, and I gave up work to become his carer. At the time, we were living in Penrith, but we had always loved holidaying up in Nambucca. Wanting a more affordable lifestyle, we decided to sell our house and move somewhere more affordable, which led us to Macksville. We instantly fell in love with the place, and it’s been home ever since.
I like to keep busy, and one of my passions has been community radio. I was president of 2NVR for four years and my love for radio and community remains as strong as ever.
Breast cancer, unfortunately, has been a big part of my family’s story. My younger sister, was diagnosed in 2006, and my elder sister, was diagnosed in 2012. Given our family history, I made sure to have regular breast screens. And it’s a good thing I did because in 2016, it was my turn.
I had my screening done at Coffs Harbour and fortunately it was caught early, just a small lump. I was lucky compared to my sisters. Even though the process was straightforward, I was furious that cancer had come for another one of us. I needed something tangible to direct my anger at, so in my mind, cancer became a thing I could argue with, yell at, and fight against.
When I got my diagnosis, it felt like stepping onto a conveyor belt; appointments, tests, treatments. But I was surrounded by incredible support. My oncologist was a lovely man. I remember being prepped for surgery and getting a bit cheeky when they asked me the same questions for the umpteenth time. When the nurse came in, I told her I was there for a breast reduction. She panicked, looking at the paperwork, but Dr. Ross just laughed and said, “Now’s not the time for humour, Donna.”
My breast cancer was hormone receptor-positive and HER2-negative. I had surgery, followed by radiation. The treatment was manageable, and I was grateful it had been caught early. I also had a wonderful breast care nurse, who was there every step of the way.
I’ve always loved cricket, and the Pink Test in Sydney means a lot to me, not just because of the game, but because of the McGrath Foundation and the incredible support they provide. I even had the opportunity to interview their Ambassador and Director, Tracy Bevan, which was a special moment for me.
Now, I tell everyone, if the BreastScreen NSW bus comes to your area, go get checked. And you don’t have to go alone, take a friend. The first time can be a bit of a shock, but after that, it just becomes routine, something you do for your health and your life. And it's free, which is incredible.
The earlier it’s found the better. The longer you leave it, the harder it becomes for the doctors, the surgeons, and for yourself.
If you’re hesitating, I’ll say what I tell my friends: “Come on, I’ll go with you.” Because it’s not just about you, it’s about the people who love you. So please, go with a friend, book your breast screen.
