Since losing my mum to ovarian cancer very young in 2004, the BRCA gene mutation has been on my radar. I had a genetic test and was officially diagnosed positive for BRCA2 in 2021. It’s been a long journey towards acceptance, but after my first cancer scare in 2025, I have elected to move forward with a prophylactic double mastectomy to lower my cancer risk. 2025 was a hard year overall, as I was also laid off from my job and took the huge step of pursuing self-employment and launching my own business.

I’ve been very fortunate to get an unexpectedly early surgery date due to a cancellation. However, this has left me in a difficult spot financially as I was not expecting to access this surgery for at least a year. I’ve poured all my emergency savings into my business over the past year, and am no longer eligible for any type of short-term disability or sickness leave due to being self-employed.

I’m hoping to raise funds to cover two months of living costs and base expenses for my business. Due to the physical nature of my job as a jeweller, I will be unable to work for a minimum of 8 weeks recovery time. Any amount is hugely helpful and deeply appreciated!