Community rallies to help Denise Steyn fight breast cancer
Denise has spent most of her life looking out for others, but is now in need of help herself.
Denise Steyn is a wife, a mother, a local hairdresser and a friend to anyone and everyone who crosses her path.
Denise has spent most of her life looking out for others, whether by doing their hair or helping to feed and take care of struggling addicts needing love and guidance while navigating sobriety. However, after years of helping others, Denise is in need of help herself after being diagnosed with breast cancer.
“I have always believed in working hard, looking after my family and making a living through dedication and determination. Unfortunately, our lives have recently taken an unexpected and devastating turn,” said Denise.
Double mastectomy marks beginning of treatment
Denise was recently diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer, a diagnosis that has changed her and her family’s lives in ways they could never have imagined.
On October 5, Denise underwent a double mastectomy. Although this was a major step in her cancer journey, it is unfortunately only the beginning of what lies ahead. She now needs to consult with an oncologist and prepare for further treatment, which will include chemotherapy and radiation.
“As anyone who has faced cancer knows, this journey is not only physically and emotionally challenging, but also financially overwhelming,” she explained.
She continued that, “I have had to put my hairdressing work on hold because of my surgery and upcoming treatments. My husband is self-employed and because we both rely on our own businesses to earn an income, this situation has placed enormous financial pressure on our household.”
With three children and a family to care for, the financial uncertainty is especially difficult.
Not only are they losing her income while she is unable to work, but her husband also has to take time away from his own work to accompany her to medical appointments and treatments.
Denise’s treatment requires travelling between Newcastle and Pietermaritzburg, which brings additional expenses for fuel, transport and accommodation.
On top of this, there are medical consultations, tests, oncology fees and other treatment-related costs they need to prepare for.
Family faces mounting costs
They are therefore reaching out to their community and humbly asking for help, which will assist with the following expenses:
- Medical expenses, including tests, specialist consultations and oncology fees.
- Chemotherapy and radiation-related expenses.
- Transport and fuel for travelling to and from Pietermaritzburg. Accommodation during treatment when travelling back and forth is not practical.
- Everyday household expenses while family income is reduced.
- Supporting the family while Denise is unable to return to work.
“Asking for help is not easy, especially when you are used to working hard and providing for yourself and your family. But sometimes life puts us in a position where we have to put our pride aside and allow others to walk alongside us,” said Denise.
Denise said her biggest wish is to focus on fighting this cancer, get through her treatments and, hopefully, return to the life and work she loves.
Most importantly, she said she wants to be there for her husband and their three children and continue making memories together.
If you are able to contribute financially, no matter how small the amount, please know that it will make a meaningful difference to Denise and her family.
If you are unable to donate, sharing their campaign with your friends, family and community would mean just as much to her.
To support, visit: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/denises-journey’
“Every donation, every share, every message of encouragement and every prayer is deeply appreciated. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us through one of the most difficult chapters of our lives,” concluded Denise.
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