Honouring Nicky and Kas: A Personal Journey Through Breast Cancer Awareness Month

As a new year unfolds, our hearts are heavy yet determined as we embark on a journey to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For our small team in Australia, this cause hits close to home as we remember our beloved colleague and friend, Nicky, who lost her battle with this insidious disease in 2020.

Nicky wasn’t just a colleague; she was family. Her presence lit up our office, her memory akin to an elephant’s, never forgetting a birthday or an opportunity to spread joy with a homemade cake. Despite her own struggles, Nicky’s infectious happiness filled the room whenever she walked in. She was more than a friend; she was a confidant, a beacon of light in our lives.

For me, Nicky was a second mother. Our bond spanned my entire life, with her constant presence shaping my childhood and adulthood alike. Losing her echoed the pain of losing my best friend, Kas, just 18 months earlier, both to the same dreadful disease.

The loss of Nicky and Kas serves as a poignant reminder that cancer knows no bounds. It doesn’t discriminate based on age, gender, or background. It leaves behind shattered families, voids that can never be filled, and hearts that ache with profound loss.

As we honor the memories of Nicky and Kas this month, we’re reminded of the importance of raising awareness for breast cancer. We’re committed to spreading the message of early detection, support, and hope, in the hopes that someday, others won’t have to endure the same pain.

Support and Resources for Those Affected by Breast Cancer in New South Wales, Australia

If you or someone you know is struggling with the impact of breast cancer, know that you’re not alone. There are organizations and resources available to provide support, guidance, and comfort during this challenging time. Here are a few based in New South Wales:

1. Cancer Council New South Wales: Cancer Council NSW offers a range of support services, including information and resources on breast cancer, support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance. Visit their website at www.cancercouncil.com.au or call their helpline at 13 11 20.
2. Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA): BCNA provides support and information for Australians affected by breast cancer, including those living in New South Wales. They offer online resources, support groups, and peer support programs. Visit www.bcna.org.au or call their helpline at 1800 500 258.
3. National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF): NBCF funds life-changing breast cancer research in Australia and offers support services for individuals and families affected by breast cancer. Visit www.nbcf.org.au or call their helpline at 02 8098 4800 for more information.