When Joanne Harmer first heard the words “you have cancer,” her world changed in an instant.
The 51-year-old from Werrimull in Victoria was devastated and frightened after being diagnosed with stage 3 carcinoma of unknown primary – a rare diagnosis where doctors are unable to identify where the cancer first began.
Despite extensive testing, scans and biopsies, Joanne’s medical team has not been able to locate the primary cancer. However, because the disease behaves like an aggressive triple-negative breast cancer, that is the treatment she is receiving.
“It was absolutely devastating and scary,” Joanne said.
“There were so many unknowns and questions, but I knew I had to stay strong, trust my medical team and focus on taking one day at a time.”
Joanne’s diagnosis followed persistent soreness under her arm that she knew did not feel right.
“I became very, very sore under my arm and the pain kept getting worse,” she said.
“I hadn’t noticed a lump, but I decided I had better get it checked. That led to further tests, scans and biopsies, which eventually resulted in my diagnosis.”
Since her diagnosis, Joanne has undergone chemotherapy, immunotherapy and blood transfusions as part of her treatment journey. While chemotherapy and immunotherapy were initially started, treatment was stopped when scans showed it was not having the desired effect.
Joanne recently commenced radiotherapy at Icon Cancer Centre Mildura in an effort to shrink the cancer before surgery.
There has also been some encouraging news.
“My most recent PET scan showed that the cancer has not spread and remains confined to my axillary (underarm) lymph nodes,” Joanne said.
For Joanne, receiving treatment at Icon Cancer Centre Mildura has made an enormous difference.
Living in the rural community of Werrimull, access to high-quality cancer care close to home has helped ease the burden of an already challenging experience.
Cancer treatment is physically and emotionally exhausting, so being able to access care closer to home has reduced the stress of travelling long distances.
It has allowed me to spend more time with my family and focus on my treatment and recovery.
During her treatment, Joanne unexpectedly became a significant part of Icon Cancer Centre Mildura’s history when she was recognised as the centre’s 1000th patient.
“It was a complete surprise and a real honour,” Joanne said.
“While nobody wants to become a cancer patient, it was very special to be recognised. It also highlighted how important it is for regional communities like ours to have access to high-quality cancer treatment close to home.”
Joanne praised the care she has received from the Icon Mildura team.
“The doctors, nurses and every member of the team have treated me with kindness, compassion and respect from the very beginning,” said Joanne.
“They have supported me through some very difficult days, always taking the time to listen, reassure me and provide the best possible care. I am so grateful to every one of them.”
Throughout her cancer journey, Joanne says the unwavering support of her family has helped her face each challenge.
“My family has been my biggest source of strength throughout this journey,” she said.
“Their love, encouragement and support have helped me through some of the toughest times, and I honestly don’t know where I would be without them.”
While treatment remains her primary focus, Joanne says her cancer experience has transformed her outlook on life.
“It has taught me not to take life for granted and to appreciate every single day,” she said.
“It has also shown me the importance of family, friends and the incredible healthcare professionals who support people through their cancer journey.”
Joanne’s story is a powerful reminder of the vital role regional cancer services play in providing accessible, compassionate care close to home for local communities.