At the beginning of 2025, my mum, Natalie, was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer metastasised. Mum spent the rest of the year undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery. In August this year, just eight months after being told she was cancer-free, the cancer returned.

This time, though, things are different. Mum’s care team of doctors have told us that there is no treatment path available that can remove the cancer. The only option they can offer is a clinical trial that may slow the progression of the cancer for an estimated seven to twelve months.

Hearing those words has been devastating for our entire family. We are trying to come to terms with the reality that the person who has always been the heart of our family is now facing an illness that cannot be cured.

With my dad already being physically disabled and Mum now also unable to work, I have watched them struggle with the day-to-day expenses that come with the rising cost of living. On top of this, there are the added financial pressures of Mum’s cancer treatment — travel to and from appointments, medications, scans, tests, specialist consultations and all the unexpected costs that come with navigating such a devastating diagnosis.

They have always done their best to manage on their own and have never been the type of people to ask for help. But right now, they need support.

The last thing I want Mum and Dad to have to worry about during this time is whether they can afford the essentials. I want them to be able to focus on each other, on spending time together, and on making the most of the time we have as a family without the constant weight of financial stress hanging over them.

Any support, no matter how big or small, would mean more to us than I can put into words. The funds raised will help cover Mum’s ongoing medical and treatment-related expenses, travel, medications, household bills and everyday living costs, while allowing my parents to have some financial breathing room during an incredibly difficult chapter of their lives.

If you’re unable to donate, simply sharing Mum’s story would mean just as much to us. Every share helps reach someone who may be able to offer support.

Thank you for taking the time to read Mum’s story, and for any love, kindness or support you can give our family. ❤️