We recently caught up with Martine, whose story was featured in our tax appeal last year. Martine was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma at the age of 29 and she has since been on a treatment journey involving a mastectomy, lymphadenectomy, preserving her eggs, chemotherapy, radiation and a medically 5-year induced menopause. Her strength and courage has been an inspiration to all of us here at the Foundation. Martine shared with us what she has been up to and what life has been like since her last active treatment session of radiation in May 2022.
“I am fantastic, I am back to full training in the gym, ocean swimming and yoga. I am currently training for my second half marathon which is happening in NYC in March. I completed my first ever half marathon in September last year in Sydney. I also had my prophylactic left side mastectomy and reconstruction in October which will conclude my planned surgery for a few years. I will have my ovaries removed when I am 40 years old (31 years old now).
I visit the hospital every month as part of my ongoing hormone therapy where I have a huge needle administered in the chemotherapy ward in the Bright Alliance centre on level 2. This monthly injection is part of a five-year treatment plan along with a daily pill that keeps my body in a medically induced menopause. I also see my oncologist in the same centre every 3 months, my physio every 3 months in the Royal Hospital for Women and will soon have a follow up with my breast surgeon. I will also attend annual screens at the Breast Centre.
I have recently quit my corporate job after seven years with my amazing employer. After my cancer diagnoses, my perspective on life changed massively and I no longer want to climb the corporate ladder. I have a new love for life and do not take anything for granted. I am hoping to set up my own business in the next few months so watch this space.”
