One day, one breath, one fight: Wendy’s journey through cancer
Wendy Fourie from Homelake bravely begins chemotherapy, fighting cancer with strength, hope and the support of her community.
After months of waiting for treatment for breast cancer, Wendy Fourie is finally receiving chemotherapy. However, the cancer has now caused fluid in her lungs.
On May 28, the Randfontein Herald reported on Wendy’s struggles to receive treatment for a lump in her breast, which was believed to be breast cancer. The cancer has since spread to her lungs, as well as her glands.
She explained that during her last visit to a regional hospital in Potchefstroom to receive the CT scan results, she informed her doctor that she had an annoying cough, who prescribed antibiotics.
Exactly a week later, Wendy explained, the doctor referred her to Klerksdorp-Tshepong Tertiary Hospital’s Oncology unit. She continued after they waited an entire day, she was referred back to the regional hospital in Potchefstroom without treatment, as she had to receive treatment for her lungs before receiving treatment for the cancer.
“By the time we got back to the regional hospital, it was after 15:00. By that time, my breathing was very bad. Keep in mind, every time we drive to another town for treatment, we have to borrow a car as ours can’t drive that far. Arriving at the regional hospital, they sent me to casualties, after which I was admitted, as the cancer is causing fluid in my lungs. I was there for 10 days,” Wendy said.
“I saw things no person should have to see, and to go through it was just too much. I was alone, I was concerned about our finances, and my husband had to drive back and forth every day, which was another struggle.”
Two weeks ago, she was referred to a state hospital in Johannesburg, where she is now finally receiving chemo treatment, which the doctor immediately started with. She is also on oxygen due to the fluid in her lungs.
She noted her situation is still dire as she is always tired and in constant pain. She stated she lies down most of the day, and she still has trouble eating and difficulty breathing.
They are currently living off the donations they receive from their BackaBuddy fund, which mostly goes toward medical bills.
“We are very grateful for all the help we’ve received so far. I am finally receiving treatment, and I pray to our Heavenly Father every day for better health. Our Father won’t put an obstacle in our path if He doesn’t know we are strong enough to face it.”
She continued to thank every person who had contributed to her treatment and supported her through the process, especially her husband and child.
She offered advice to others fighting cancer.
“Don’t lose hope; some days are harder than others, but God walks this path with you. He is next to you, and He carries you. Just keep believing and stay positive,” she said.
They are still in need of funds for Wendy’s treatment, and if any person has a soft bed for her to sleep on, reach out on 062 363 1794 or follow her BackaBuddy page for details.
