Hey everyone,

I’m Jo. On Thursday, 30 November, an ultrasound and biopsy on a lump in my right breast indicated the likelihood of breast cancer. Following a mammogram, a PET scan, and an MRI I was diagnosed with HER2 positive breast cancer (Grade 3) Invasive Carcinoma. The diagnosis revealed metastasis (lymph node involvement), but thankfully, no evidence of spread to the other organs (M0). On Thursday 14th, my specialist informed me that scans showed uptake in two axillary nodes and also in the internal mammary nodes behind the sternum. 6-months of chemotherapy treatment and a 12-month course of HER2 trastuzumab, and Pertuzumab has been advised based on the tumor's (T2) biology.

Just two days before the biopsy, the parent company that acquired the startup I was a part of unfortunately repositioned its vision, resulting in redundancy for myself and the entire product team involved. If you know me, you’re aware of my philosophical approach to life, and belief that nothing is ever lost. That everything happens for a purpose, reason, or season, including this very challenge. I'm on what I call a "reconciliation process," (inspired by JMs recon) a deeply personal journey to resolve the internal conflict that's manifested as dis-ease in my body. This introspective path is about understanding my body's needs, aligning my emotional, spiritual, and physical states to foster sustainable and long-lasting healing and wellness.

Although I've always prided myself on my resilience, facing life's challenges independently and without family support abroad, this transition calls for a wider circle of support. Reaching out and receiving help is both difficult and humbling but so rewarding. With vulnerability in my heart (rather, right breast) I have established this GoFundMe campaign.

Thank you everyone for your generous donations Your support has been invaluable, helping to alleviate stress and providing assistance for various needs, including:

Moving forward, your continued support will assist with:

I view this experience as a catalyst for reshaping my career path and aligning it with the legacy I aspire to leave on this world. My focus now shifts towards bridging the gap between emotional wisdom and Western medicine. While I've always harboured a deep passion and innate knowledge and organic connections to these aspects, I have yet to activate them. I am dedicated to delving into and promoting sustainable, long-term healing practices, recognising the increasing prevalence of various diseases, not limited to breast cancer.

With knowledge in venture design and a newfound sense of purpose, my intent is to create a centralised profiling software. The aim is to facilitate connections between practitioners and patients focusing on dis-ease management and prevention using a more accessible health vitality index centred around emotional and metaphysical awareness.

For dear friends local to the Brisbane or the Gold Coast areas, your physical support would mean the world to me and my two little ones. Whether it's child minding, household help, or simply sharing a cup of bone both and medicinal shrooms, your presence will be so invaluable. Please join “Jo’s Support Circle” on WhatsApp for more frequent updates.

Your thoughts, prayers, guidance, and positive vibes are so deeply appreciated. Thank you in advance for your kindness and support. Sending all our love, gratitude, and light return.

Jo, Zack, Mikaere & Manaia ✨

Also included is a recent video from my hair shaving ceremony below.