Aimee Rose’s Story

I was diagnosed on the 18th July 2022, aged 29, with Stage 4 Adenocarcinoma with a BRAF mutation. I had a colonoscopy based on medical info from my sister which found a 6.5cm tumor in my bowel – I had no previous symptoms before diagnosis.

I had surgery to remove the tumour on August 7th, nearly 20 years to the day after my Mum had surgery for her cancer. I’m currently receiving treatment through Auckland Cancer Trials Centre on the Breakwater trial. The trial is going okay – I’ve had some shrinkage and some growth. Cancer is never a straight journey – it’s filled with ups and downs and loop de loops!

My mum actually had cancer when I was younger (GIST) so I know the turns it can take. Unfortunately she passed away when I was 12.

I’m a teacher and still working part-time. I decided to take part in Round The Bays 2023 to prove to myself that I can still do hard things. I may have cancer but cancer doesn’t have me! I also wanted to raise money for people like me who are battling this disease.

You can support Aimee Rose’s fundraiser here: http://bit.ly/3KklO7r