Right now there are Kiwis struggling with a diagnosis of incurable breast cancer and Covid-19. Increased anxiety and the hidden costs of cancer mean many women and their families are finding it difficult to cope.
Over the last few days, we have spoken many Auckland-based women with incurable breast cancer who don’t have face masks - and simply can’t afford to buy one.
For our women with incurable breast cancer, living with a compromised immune system, struggling with the hidden costs of cancer, and already carrying a heavy load of anxiety and fear, you can imagine the enormous toll the current Covid situation is taking on them.
For just $35, you can send a Covid Compassion Kit that includes a reusable face mask with a filter for a woman with incurable cancer.
Ainette: "We simply can’t afford extras like face masks"
Ainette is just 37 years old. The shock of her initial breast cancer diagnosis was made even worse by the knowledge that her cancer was incurable. Her breast cancer had already spread to her liver and lungs.
A mum of five young children, Ainette told us: ‘I am worried about Covid all the time. I don’t feel safe - even in Level 1. I'm afraid to go out. I know if I get sick I will end up in hospital and I don’t want that.
“The hospital gave me a few masks but the reusable ones are so expensive and I can’t sew. I’m too exhausted and can’t work anymore so our budget is tight. We simply can’t afford extras like face masks.
“My goal is to be around for my kids. I want to be around to show them how much I love them as their mum, for as long as I can.”
A gift of just $35 can send a Covid Compassion Kit to help women like Ainette. Your gift today will help Kiwis to receive the help and advice they need to manage these most anxious weeks.