Bryce Eishold
Jeannette Veeman is remaining optimistic despite the realisation her life could take a turn at any moment.
The Narracan resident was featured in The Express in June promoting an ovarian cancer fundraiser next month after being diagnosed – and successfully defeating the awful disease twice.
But, in a terrible turn of events, Ms Veeman has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer for a third time – this time a lump which is causing her pain and discomfort.
Ms Veeman will find out by the end of the month how serious this bout of cancer is, what treatment can be offered and whether it is terminal.
The latest diagnosis came after tests during an oncology visit revealed her white blood cell count was significantly high.
“This one is pretty aggressive, I’m in a lot of pain with this one. The other two weren’t as bad,” Ms Veeman told The Express.
“I’ve got to do CT scans and I’ll find out the day before the fundraiser what the situation is and whether it’s terminal, yeah you could say it’s a bummer.”
Diagnosed with stage three cancer in 2012 and again in 2016, Ms Veeman, 62, was told by specialists the cancer would likely return – and warned it could be more aggressive than before.
“Mentally … I’m trying to not think about it. It is what it is and that’s why I want to support this fundraiser to make a difference for the women who
are battling this dreaded disease.”
Friend and neighbour Deb Hales is also battling ovarian cancer after being diagnosed with stage three in October 2017.
While Ms Hales is in remission after more than eight rounds of intensive chemotherapy, she said more research was required to help find a cure for the disease which kills more than 1000 women each year.
“No one know anything about ovarian cancer in the community … there’s got to be more done. Women and men need to know more about how this impacts so many people in our community,” Ms Hales said.
The fundraising event will be held on Saturday, September 1 from 10am-6pm at the Narracan Falls Winery on McDonalds Track, Narracan.
Music, market stalls, classic cars, an animal farm and barbecue will be just some of the attractions.
Entry is by gold coin donation.
For more information, phone 0490 784 727.
