For any woman diagnosed with breast cancer, the inability to afford private healthcare can be an overwhelming emotional and financial burden.

• Also read: Cancer survivor’s story: ‘It is a visitor, this is not its body’

Wendy Fourie (38) was recently diagnosed with breast cancer, and without access to private healthcare, she must travel to Potchefstroom for treatment at a public hospital.

She first noticed a lump in her breast some time ago, but like many others juggling everyday responsibilities, she delayed seeking medical attention. When she eventually visited a private hospital, she was able to undergo a mammogram. From there, she consulted a private doctor for the referral letter required to access care at a government hospital – none in her area would see her without one.

All the local public hospitals had long waiting lists. Because her husband, Riaan, knew the Potchefstroom area from his school days, they made the difficult decision to travel there for medical help. A doctor in Potchefstroom examined her and referred her to the town’s public hospital.

At the hospital, Wendy underwent a biopsy where a tissue sample was taken for testing. Unfortunately, the initial attempt was unsuccessful as the needle could not penetrate the lump, which had become too hard. Instead of repeating the procedure, doctors arranged for her to go to the theatre on her next visit, where they removed a sample directly. That’s when her cancer diagnosis was confirmed.

Her journey since has been long and uncertain. On May 26, she had blood tests, and on May 28, she is scheduled for a CT scan and more tests. Doctors will compare the results to decide whether chemotherapy is necessary or if surgery to remove the lump is the next step.

In just four months, Wendy has seen 13 different doctors, each offering a different perspective. Since her first visit to the hospital on February 10, there has been little progress in her treatment, while the lump continues to grow.

The couple is appealing to the community for support, either to afford treatment at a private facility or to access care closer to home.

Right now, our entire income goes towards my medical needs,” Wendy shared.

“My husband is the only one working, and because I’m not yet on treatment, I don’t qualify for a SASSA grant.”

To make ends meet, Riaan takes on odd jobs over weekends. Still, it’s a constant struggle.

“We’re scraping by,” he admitted. “But we still have to pay bills, rent, and buy food.”

Adding to their challenges, the Potchefstroom hospital does not have an oncology department. If Wendy requires specialist cancer care, they’ll need to travel to another hospital yet again.

• Also read: Why early cancer detection means better upfront treatment

To help manage these mounting costs, the couple has set up a BackaBuddy campaign. They’ve made it clear that any support received won’t only benefit Wendy – they hope to assist other women facing similar circumstances.

“We don’t want anyone else to suffer like this,” Riaan said. “A helping hand can make all the difference.”

If you’d like to support Wendy’s journey, you can contact her directly on 062 363 1794 or visit the campaign page here.