First and foremost I am an incredibly proud mum of two awesome children, I’m also a wife of the most magnificent husband who has stuck by me through thick and thin, better and worse.
I happen to have some health challenges but that is not who I am, it is what I have. I have been defying Motor Neurone Disease (MND) for many years, 18 months ago I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and had a mastectomy and chemotherapy and was cleared only to have the cancer return in my brain this September.
Currently I am having whole brain radiation and I intend to kick cancer in the arse!
My first encounter with cancer was at age 22 when I was diagnosed with Stage 3B Hodgkins Lymphoma which was treated with extensive chemotherapy. It was at this time that I decided that any future health challenges would be counteracted by setting myself a personal goal to aim for. This was my positive way of coping.
During this part of my life I refused to let it stop me from pursuing a career in the fitness industry so I strapped my wig on and taught aerobics all the way through. Once I went into remission I thought I was invincible and could do anything so applied to university and achieved a Bachelor of Sports Science, this was my personal challenge. I worked in health and fitness for 25 years.
When I was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) my personal challenge was to raise my children to be confident, independent, fearless, compassionate and kind individuals that never thought of my health as an issue.
When I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer my personal challenge was study to become a Catholic. Over the next 9 months I completed all my sacraments with the final Eucharist held in June this year.
My personal challenge after my recent diagnosis of metastised breast cancer (brain) was to give back to all the people that have helped me, in particular the Motor Neurone Association who have provided unlimited support.
The MND Association are also responsible for providing care, research and awareness for a world free from MND.
I am honoured to be able to raise awareness at an upcoming Melbourne Cup event held at St Rose Catholic Primary school, which will be hosted by Melinda Gainsford-Taylor whereby all proceeds will be donated to MND.
Diary of a Warrior Mummy 