Kirby's Initial Diagnosis and Some General Information

On Tuesday 17th August 2021, after undergoing a mammogram, ultrasound, and a biopsy, Kirby was diagnosed with a rare neuroendocrine breast cancer. It was a shock to both of us.

On Friday 20th August, she had a positron emission tomography (PET) scan which showed promising results to indicate the cancer had not spread elsewhere throughout her body. The surgeon advised that removing the cancer from her breast was a priority. Kirby will have a mastectomy next Monday (23rd August) at the National Capital Private Hospital. She will remain there for approximately one week to recover prior to commencing chemotherapy. 

We don't know a lot about her ongoing treatment yet because we haven't seen the oncologist. This will likely happen next week after surgery. 

Life in Canberra at the moment is a little unusual because we're in lockdown due to COVID-19. The kids are being home-schooled and we've explained Kirby's diagnosis to them in broad terms, although they don't seem to fully comprehend it just yet. Due to the lockdown, Kirby won't be allowed to have any visitors (including the kids and me) to the hospital. Although that sounds drastic, it's for a good reason. 

We would like to thank everyone for their support so far. Lots of people have asked what they can do to help. The answer is: we don't know yet. Living independently and away from family is quite normal for us, and we have everything set up in a way that allows us to get by. Once Kirby returns home and needs regular chemotherapy, things are likely to become more difficult. We have wonderful friends, a supportive school, and my work has been very flexible to allow me to support the family. 

Once we know more, we will be sure to let you know via this website. Please feel free to share it with other family and friends so they can stay up to date.

Every setback is an opportunity.

Chris