I never imagined I would be writing something like this.

My name is Charice Vergara, I am 44 years old, and I came to Australia 4 years ago as an international student, hoping to build a better future through hard work, education, and new opportunities.

Last August, my husband and I got married and were excited to begin our new life together. But shortly after, our lives changed unexpectedly when I was diagnosed with cervical cancer.

I have now been confirmed to undergo chemoradiation treatment followed by brachytherapy, which is estimated to cost around $32,000. My doctors have advised me to urgently begin chemoradiation on the 18th of May to give me the best possible chance for treatment and recovery.

At the same time, my husband has been doing everything he can to keep us financially afloat. We are struggling to manage our mortgage, rent, bills, daily living expenses, and the costs of my visa application, which is also a significant financial burden, while preparing for my ongoing cancer treatment.

Despite everything, I am still praying and hopeful for a full recovery so I can continue my life and work as a childcare educator — a career that I truly love and am passionate about — and hopefully become an inspiration to others who may also be going through difficult times.

As difficult as this is, we are holding onto hope, faith, and each other. We are humbly asking for any support, no matter how small, to help ease the burden of my treatment and recovery.

If you are unable to donate, simply sharing our story would already mean so much to us.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness, prayers, and support during this incredibly difficult time.