Di’s Story
Time and again, we find patients who get together to share their stories, benefit greatly from the hope and positivity generated by our PYNKS group. One of our ladies, Di McPherson, shares her story:
When I was diagnosed in 2013, my experience with doctors had been a yearly flu shot or a prescription written for the occasional episode of tonsillitis. Being told I had breast cancer was like entering an alternative universe. Fortunately, I was referred to Professor Arlene Chan, and through her, I was able to be part of a trial.
Apart from getting access to medication not yet available on the market, and at no cost, I was well supported by staff at BCRC-WA. I was guided through the maze of healing medications, scans and tests, and I always had at least one of the staff there hold my hand and listen to my concerns.
I was also encouraged to attend PYNKS and I am so grateful I did. Through this wonderful group, I’ve met amazing women who are always generous in sharing their experiences and willing to help in any way they can. Being able to talk, laugh and sometimes cry with people who truly understand what you’re dealing with, is an amazing support. I always leave a PYNKS gathering feeling lighter than when I arrived.
Incredible people like our Ladybirds* as well as the PYNKS ladies have kept me sane. I’m lucky to have been referred to Professor Chan and to be receiving everything she has put in place to support her patients. When I think of all the beautiful staff, the trials girls, Jess, the PYNKS ladies and Amanda, the breast cancer nurse, I know I am very fortunate.
*The Ladybird fund was set up to help women finance treatment not available on the PBS. It was established by the family of Virginia ‘Ginny’ Margaret Brooke who lost her battle to metastatic breast cancer in 2015.
Share Your Story
Are you a patient of the PBCI and would like to share your story with breast cancer as part of our Stories of Hope series on our website and Newsletter?
We love hearing our patient’s stories and sharing them with others at the very beginning of theirs. For more information on how to be involved, contact us.
