Hi my name is Teressa and together with her mum Helen we are asking for help to help Paula and her family get through this difficult time again

Help Support Paula Through Cancer Treatment

On 16th May 2024, our beautiful friend Paula was diagnosed with Stage 3 bowel cancer. It was a life-changing moment — frightening, overwhelming, and deeply unfair.

Shortly after her diagnosis, Paula underwent a left-hand hemicolectomy, a major surgery to remove part of her bowel. From there, she moved straight into an intensive treatment plan.

Paula began chemotherapy with incredible strength and determination:

   •   4 rounds of chemotherapy, each lasting 21 days

   •   Day 1: 3-hour intravenous chemotherapy

   •   Days 1–14: oral chemotherapy tablets

   •   Days 15–21: drug-free recovery

Then the cycle would begin again.

In Paula’s own words:

“I’m okay. Sad, but okay. I now have a plan. I’m scared, but determined.”

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Update – December 2025

In December 2025, Paula received the heartbreaking news that the cancer had returned.

A colonoscopy on 17th December showed the tumour had doubled in size in just one month. While the right side was clear and additional polyps were removed, Paula is now facing another long and demanding battle.

After meeting with a new surgeon in Sydney, a new treatment plan was put in place:

   •   6 months of chemotherapy to shrink the tumours

   •   Followed by major surgery, including a second bowel resection and lymph node removal using robotic technology

   •   12 rounds of chemotherapy, with the first round starting in January

   •   A PICC line will be inserted (a procedure Paula is understandably very anxious about), with hopes of later transitioning to a portacath

Despite everything, Paula remains positive and determined. She is grateful to be under the care of her new surgeon, Peter Lee, who she describes as “the bees knees,” and she continues to face this journey with courage.

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Why We’re Asking for Help

Paula is currently working in the hospital kitchen while undergoing cancer treatment — an incredible testament to her strength, but also an enormous physical and emotional strain.

We are raising funds to help cover rent and everyday living expenses, so that if Paula needs to take time off work to rest, recover, or attend treatment, she won’t have the added stress of worrying about how to make ends meet.

Cancer affects far more than just health — it impacts every part of daily life.

Paula is a devoted mum to a beautiful daughter two beautiful boys and a proud grandmother to two grandchildren, who are her world. She deserves the chance to focus fully on healing and spending precious time with her family.

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How You Can Help

Any donation, no matter how small, will make a meaningful difference.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page is just as appreciated.

Let’s help ease the financial burden so Paula can focus on what truly matters — her health, her family, and her fight.

Thank you for your kindness, love, and support

Teressa and Helen