MEDIA: A Fight Against Rare Cancers
When Odile was diagnosed with Stage 3 Rectal Cancer late last year, she was shocked, having had 59 healthy years already.
“I had done all the tests and people had their ideas of what was wrong with me, but nothing was pointing to cancer,” she told The Australian Jewish News.
Odile has now decided to turn this nightmare diagnosis, and months of difficult treatment, into an inspiring move against cancer.
She created a mycause fundraising page with the aim to raise $100,000 that would go towards funding medical research into rare cancers.
“For cancer to be rare, [it] means that it occurs in fewer than six people out of 100,000 people each year,” she explains on her fundraising page.
Odile puts her mind to helping the fund grow each day however she can, which she says gives her a much-needed sense of purpose.
She told 9Honey that "anger isn't going to serve me...I have to focus on getting better."
"Richard and his partner, Frederica, are planning to get married in Italy in July 2024," she said to Channel 9's Jo Abi. "I'm going to do everything in my power to be at that wedding."
Odile's focus on her online fundraising has led to great success.
In the first seven weeks, Odile’s fund has raised more than $46,000!
On her fundraising page, Odile provides a detailed explanation of why she is raising money for research into rare cancers.
“People with rare cancers and their doctors face extra challenges…Rare cancers commonly take longer to diagnose and are more likely to be misdiagnosed.”
Treatment plans are usually based on “limited evidence”, she says, and specialists are difficult to find.
“Access to molecular testing or specific treatments may not be available or when available may not be reimbursed.
Also, there is typically limited access to clinical trials or research programs, information, or support groups.
The plan is for funding a three-part project, including hiring a medical researcher to dedicate themselves to understanding the behaviour of rare squamous cell carcinomas, consulting with leading oncologists from around the world, and genetic testing.
If you’d like to join Odile’s Good Fight Against Rare Cancers, you can donate here. Or if you want to Check out other inspiring pages where people fundraise for cancer support.
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