Seeking chemotherapy can be quite a challenge for one who has been fighting breast cancer for three years now.
Shulei ToGuata, age 39, has been on a journey on her road to recovery since finding out the appalling news about what she was going to endure.
It was in 2020 when Shulei and her family found out about the shocking news when she first realized a lump on her right breast. She had it checked in 2021 and a biopsy revealed Stage 2A invasive ductal carcinoma.
Quick checks were done before a mastectomy took place towards the end of 2021.
Upon receiving chemotherapy at the Port Moresby General Hospital, Shulei expressed how difficult it can be due to the limitation of proper medical equipment the hospital had to offer.
Many a times, this has caused the interruption of her treatments.
In 2021, a mastectomy had to be done; this is a surgery done to remove part or all of the breast. Shulei recalled how overwhelming it was for her that she had to undergo something like this which affected her psychologically.
The doctors however advised her that it was best that the entire breast be removed to prevent future recurrence.
Last August, Shulei noticed a growing lump around her ear, and upon bringing it to the attention of the doctor, was informed that it was a possible reaction to the chemo treatment, but later finding out that the cancer had spread.
Disappointed with the fact that her concern wasn’t taken seriously, Shulei continued her journey with a positive mindset.
“After six cycles of chemotherapy, further tests were conducted and these tests indicated that the cancer has spread into my left side and to nodes on my lungs.”
“My first chemo treatment had to be rescheduled as we had to purchase the chemo drugs that the hospital didn’t have. One pharmacy charged K700 whilst another charged just under K300 for the same quantity.
Purchasing these drugs is costly but it had to be done.”
The ratio of one doctor to 20+ patients a day is impractical, and with only a total of five beds in the treatment room, limits chances of seeking real time medical attention from the doctor and if not on the schedule, patients will have to wait for the next schedule and in the process, allowing the cancer to spread.
“Referrals for further treatment was another concerning issue I had to face where things were not done in a timely manner and having to wait for medical report took long.”
With no specialized doctors, Shulei had to be put on hormonal drugs for the time being and with no radio therapy available, seeking health care in country was no more a viable option.
She must now receive treatment elsewhere and that it is to seek medical care overseas and with that Shulei had received a referral from the doctors to seek further medical assistance in Townsville, Australia.
“I have received a referral to see a doctor in Townsville for preliminary tests including a PET scan. This initial trip is estimated to cost around PGK50, 000 in which we have been blessed to have support for.”
“However, we will need funds to help us with daily costs while on this trip for mobility, meals and to prepare for further treatment costs. We are so grateful for the support and love given along this journey and appreciative of every gift.”
Shulei was told that they should raise up to K100, 000 for her treatment and extra expenses as they are unsure of the costs that will be incurrerd going forward.
She is expected to travel overseas soon, however, is yet to sort out a couple more things before making the trip.
Shulei and her family are currently hosting fundraisings. Check out her Facebook page- Road to Recovery, to seek more information if interested to help out.
“Through my journey, I always have a positive mindset, and that I am living life as it should be but most importantly to take one step at a time. I am forever grateful to my loving husband who has been with me till the beginning and for the support from my colleagues, friends and most importantly my family.”