In an inspiring story of love, resilience, and community support, Maree and Allan who are long-time residents of Mildura, faced the unthinkable: both were diagnosed with cancer just months apart.
Allan was first, receiving a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma in December 2023 after noticing a sore behind his ear.
“My surgeon Dr Margaret Dunkley did a biopsy, and she said that it had to be dealt with straight away,” he recalled.
The cancer had already spread to his chin and ear.
“My body is covered in it, but as long as it grows outwards, I should be fine,” he added.
A lifelong local raised in the bush, Allan has lived with multiple skin cancers and melanomas and it’s something he attributes to years spent outdoors without sun protection.
He began radiation treatment at Icon Cancer Centre Mildura, undergoing 20 doses over four weeks.
Just five months later, in May 2024, Maree received her own life-changing diagnosis.
“It was a routine mammogram I have every two years,” she said.
“They found something and sent me to Bendigo for a biopsy. A week later, they told me it was breast cancer.”
Her diagnosis was for an aggressive, estrogen-fed cancer, which was only 12mm in size, but caught early.
“I was stunned. I didn’t know what to feel. I just kept on doing what I was doing,” she said.
Maree underwent surgery in Mildura with Dr Margaret Dunkley, who then referred her to Icon Cancer Centre Mildura for radiation treatment.
I started radiation on 13 July 2024, and it ran for just over three weeks. Monday to Friday for three weeks, then a few more days the following week,” Maree explained.
Allan also received radiation treatment at Icon Cancer Centre Mildura, undergoing 20 doses over four weeks.
For both Maree and Allan, the care they received at Icon Cancer Centre Mildura made a world of difference.
“Margaret was wonderful. She was so caring and funny. I had a lot of laughs,” Allan said.
Maree added, “I was terrified when I got my diagnosis. I’m my husband’s carer and couldn’t leave him alone. Having the Icon team here in Mildura made it all so much easier. You couldn’t ask for better people.”
Her radiation oncologist, Dr. Andrew See, left a lasting impression. “He said, ‘I never want to see you again!’ which is exactly what you want to hear from your cancer doctor.”
Site Manager Anita Erlandsen said supporting Maree and Allan reflects everything Icon Cancer Centre stands for.
“We’re deeply honoured to walk alongside patients like Maree and Allan through some of their most difficult times,” Anita said.
“What stood out was their strength and humour. We aim to provide more than just clinical care. We want our patients to feel seen, supported, and part of a community.”
Maree now encourages women of all ages to take screening seriously.
“Younger women are being diagnosed too. I had no symptoms. It can happen to anyone,” she said.
Their journey, one of shared health challenges, unwavering love, and outstanding local care, stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection, the strength of community, and the value of compassionate cancer care.
If you would like to be a patient at Icon Cancer Centre Mildura, please visit https://iconcancercentre.com.au/centre/mildura/
Find out how you can become a patient at Icon Cancer Centre, or request more information from your nearest centre .
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