Kate's story

Kate Hardman was first diagnosed with early breast cancer in November 2017, following her discovery of a lump while breast feeding her son. She had a mastectomy, sentinel node surgery, and radiotherapy, followed by multiple reconstructive surgeries. Unfortunately, in February 2023, the cancer returned.

“I hoped it was behind me,” says Kate. “However, a routine breast ultrasound picked up a mass, that when biopsied came back as breast cancer bilaterally.”

Receiving the second diagnosis while 22 weeks pregnant, Kate underwent surgery and chemotherapy. “I developed a severe sore neck that led me to ED,” Kate says. “Here it was discovered that cancer had broken the C5 vertebrae in my neck and I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.”

Hearing that the cancer had spread beyond the breast was a devastating blow for Kate and her family. “This diagnosis has had a profound impact on my life and my family’s,” Kate says. “I was 38 years old, 33 weeks pregnant, with 2 children at home. I was supposed to have my whole life ahead of me, but that had all changed.”

However, Kate was determined to face it with strength, a fighting spirit, and a positive mindset. “When I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, it was a whole different wave of emotions, fear, anger, and disbelief,” she says. “But I quickly realised I had to be strong for my family and decided to focus on what I could control, my attitude and my treatment. It taught me resilience, helped me embrace positivity, and appreciate every moment.”

Kate’s treatment changed to a combination of chemotherapy tablets, hormone therapies, and targeted treatments. She now receives monthly treatments at the Alan Walker Cancer Centre in Darwin.

Kate says the impact of her diagnosis on her family and friends has been profound, and having her wider family based in the UK is hard. “It’s difficult for them being so far away during this challenging time, but it’s been especially tough on my husband,” Kate says. “He’s had to care for me and our kids, whilst keeping life normal for them, and adjust to the uncertainty and the challenges that come with cancer.”

However, Kate says the adversity has also made them stronger. “This journey has strengthened our bond and we’ve learned to support each other more deeply,” she says. “I’ve seen incredible strength and love from those around me, who are in turn my source of strength.”

Kate also found support in BCNA’s Online Network and resources. “Connecting with others who understand what I’m going through has provided encouragement and comfort,” Kate says. “The BCNA guides on treatment and living with cancer helped me better understand my diagnosis and my options. It’s been a great source of support throughout this challenging time.”

She also recognises BCNA’s advocacy for making treatments more accessible and affordable. “Knowing that BCNA are working to get essential drugs on the PBS has made the financial burden of cancer treatment a little easier to bear,” Kate says. “Their efforts help ensure that more people, like me, can access the best possible care without added financial stress.”

Breast cancer has completely changed how Kate lives her life and plans for the future, but she says it has also taught her not to take anything for granted. “I live fully in the moment and focus on creating special memories with my family by prioritising what truly matters – love, health, and making the most of the time we have together,” she says. “I’m more determined than ever to embrace every day with gratitude and positivity.”

Kate would like to share some advice with all Australians:

• Be proactive about your health. Listen to your body, trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if something feels off.
• Early detection can make a huge difference.
• If you are diagnosed, remember that you are not alone. There is a strong community of support out there to help you through the toughest times, and you’ll find a strength within yourself that you never knew you had.
• For any diagnosis, take each step one at a time. Deal only with the things in front of you and don’t look too far ahead. Lean on your support systems you will need them.

You can read more about Kate and her family on her Facebook and Instagram pages.