Less than 12 months ago Brookwater mum Maria Jenner was handed a 'shock' breast cancer diagnosis – and underwent 17 rounds of chemotherapy and a double mastectomy to fight the disease.
Now cancer-free, the 57-year-old Mater Cancer Care Centre Springfield patient is on a mission to create awareness about breast cancer as part of Greater Springfield's virtual International Women's Day Fun Run, presented by Queensland X-ray.
The Brisbane CBD fun run is sold out, but locals can take part 'virtually' anywhere in the Springfield area between 3-10 March – or join Jordan MP Charis Mullen and Mater Private Hospital Springfield staff and family members on 10 March for Springfield's own 'Sea of Pink' 5km walk or run.
Funds from the event will go towards life-saving breast cancer research, as well as services and support for breast cancer patients at Mater hospitals in Brisbane, Springfield, Redlands, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton and Bundaberg.
After discovering a hard lump measuring about 3cm in her left breast last April, Ms Jenner was diagnosed with stage two HER2 positive breast cancer, a fast-growing form of invasive breast cancer affecting one in five women.
Ms Jenner said thanks to the support from her 12-year-old daughter Penina, family, friends and colleagues, a positive attitude helped her get through several months of intensive chemotherapy treatment.
"I was kind of prepared for the news but definitely upset when I found out I had breast cancer – I am the first one in our family to be diagnosed with the disease," she said.
"Having access to cancer treatment close to home was also very beneficial during my recovery."
Ms Mullen said the walk provides a platform to engage with the wider community, to raise funds, and honour those affected by breast cancer.
"I am hopeful that through this event, we can make significant strides towards advancing breast cancer research, improving patient outcomes, and ultimately finding a cure.
"While fundraising goals may vary for each participant, every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference in the fight against breast cancer.
"Together, we can make a meaningful impact and bring hope to those affected by this disease.
"By having open and honest conversations about breast cancer, we can break down stigmas, encourage early detection through regular screening, and promote access to comprehensive care and support services."
She said involving partners, husbands and families in discussions was vital because it helps to foster a supportive environment and brings awareness to a disease that will ultimately affect 1 in 7 women in Australia.
Mater Cancer Care Centre Nurse Unit Manager Billy Jovanovic said Mater Private Hospital Springfield had more than 1000 patients actively in treatment, including immune therapy, monoclonal antibodies, hormone therapy, chemotherapy and supportive or palliative care.
Ms Jovanovic said fundraising was crucial to help find a cure for breast cancer.
"Thanks to advancements in research, there have been treatments available to breast cancer patients with minimal side effects," she said.
"Research absolutely makes a difference and Mater is known for what we do in this space – community support is always crucial."
