Tests revealed Danielle had a rare type of appendix cancer – with the shocking discovery of a 14cm tumour which had taken over her left ovary
At just 48 years old, she endured a 14-hour surgery to remove her appendix, gall bladder, large intestine and undergo hysterectomy. It was a long and painful recovery, spending more than six weeks in hospital, followed by 6 months of chemotherapy. For the next three years she was in the clear, until last year when the cancer returned.
Throughout her treatment her parents insisted on taking her to every appointment. “They’re so supportive, I don’t know what I’d do without them" she said. But her family knew she would need some extra help and that’s when she was introduced to Heidi from CanCare. At first Heidi organised for Danielle to receive the disability pension, arranged a cleaner and began providing practical and just as importantly, emotional support.
“She’s got a gorgeous soul, whatever I need done, she just gets it done. Nothing is ever too much trouble for her.I’ve only known her for a couple of months but I call her a friend, a real friend.”.
Right up to her passing, Danielle’s positivity and determination to ‘beat the bastard’ was unshakable.
