It Was Always When, Never If ~ Andy's Story 💪
💕 Andy Kahle was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, weeks after buying her first drag racing car and starting work toward her licence. She shares how holding onto one very specific goal carried her through treatment, and how that same car eventually became Therapy on Wheels. We are delighted that Andy has offered to share her inspiring story with our community 💕 I was in the shower on an ordinary Wednesday night when I felt it. Dishes done, Mick (my hubby) stretched out on the couch watching the news, the dogs under the dining table dreaming about leftovers they weren't getting. Then, a lump. Within a few weeks I was sitting across from my GP hearing him say the words out loud. "Andy, you have breast cancer." What followed was a double mastectomy with reconstruction, a full hysterectomy, chemo aggressive enough that it had only just come off trial, radiation over Christmas, and a decade of medication after that. I'm not going to dwell on all of it here, because that's not actually what this story is about. Before any of this started, Mick and I had bought an 8-second drag racing Torana. I was learning to drive it, working toward my racing licence, and I wanted it so badly I could taste it. We'd spent months practising the start procedure and the burnout and the launch in a mate's carpark, getting ready for my first real day at the track. Diagnosis didn't take that want away from me. If anything, it's the only thing that got me through what came next. I decided, somewhere very early on, that beating this wasn't going to be my finish line. My actual finish line was going to be an actual finish line, a quarter mile of it, at the track. On my good days, when I could barely manage it, I'd go and sit in the car out in the workshop. Not driving anywhere. Just sitting there breathing in the fuel and rubber smell, hands on the wheel, letting it remind me who I still was underneath all of it. I stuck photos of the Torana in the front of my hospital diary and showed them to every doctor, every nurse, every roommate who'd look. Not to make a point to anyone else. Just so the dream stayed real to me, on the days it would have been so easy to let it go. It was never "if" in my head. It was always "when." That "when" is what got me out of bed on the days people told me I didn't have to. It's what had Mick setting up a treadmill in the living room, right by the front window, so I could still walk without leaving the house when my immune system was too shot to go anywhere near a gym. It's what dragged me to actual rehab once treatment was winding down, doing embarrassingly small workouts. Some days my big win was lasting a whole minute on the cross trainer, then needing another whole minute just to find the energy to climb off the thing. It didn't matter how small the win was. Every single one of them was a step closer to that car. Wanting to survive was never quite enough on its own to keep me moving. I needed something to survive for. Something specific enough to hold onto with both hands on the days everything else felt too big to face. And I wasn't carrying that dream alone. Our whole motorsport family carried it with me, and they carried Mick too. Caring for someone takes a real toll on the person doing the caring, and heading down to the track or the workshop gave him somewhere to just be a person again, not "the carer." That community never once made either of us talk about cancer unless we wanted to. They just kept showing up, kept asking about the car, kept treating the dream as something worth taking seriously, right through the worst of it. Then, finally, my doctors gave me the green light. The hoist came down. The covers came off the Torana. We loaded her onto a borrowed truck and headed for the track, and when we got there I honestly had no idea how many people would be standing behind me. Friends, family, fellow racers, people who'd heard about the dream that had been so cruelly delayed and turned up anyway to see it happen. I don't think I'd properly understood, until that exact moment, how many people had been quietly carrying this with me the whole time. I raced that little car hard. You could not have wiped the smile off my face, or off Mick's, for the entire day. I made it all the way to the finals and came home with a runner-up trophy on my very first official race meet. But it was never really about the trophy, and it still isn't. It was about standing there at the end of that quarter mile, surrounded by every single person who'd believed in the dream when I could barely hold onto it myself, and knowing I was still me. These days I'm 16 years NED, the closest thing breast cancer actually gives you to an all-clear. Mick and I eventually sold the Torana and built a new car with a different job to do. I drive a 900+HP supercharged Hellcat Mercedes now, and that car became Therapy on Wheels, a way of handing other people the same thing that got me through my own treatment: a dream worth chasing, and a community standing behind them while they chase it. If you're in the thick of your own version of this right now, that's the only thing I'd want you to take from mine. Find the dream that's yours. Say it out loud to anyone who'll listen, and let them stand behind you while you go and get it. Mine was a quarter mile long. Yours doesn't have to be anything like it. It just has to be yours.❤️Suzy's Story: Navigating Breast Cancer and Autism
Today, we’re sharing a deeply personal story from one of our own Online Network members, highlighting the intersection of breast cancer and autism, and the unique challenges and strengths that can come with that experience. Suzy was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2023, and describes the challenge of wanting connection, while also finding social interactions overwhelming - a difficult balance that many can relate to in different ways. Her story reminds us that there is no single “right” way to respond to diagnosis, only what feels right for you. 💪 👉 Read Suzy’s full story here: Living with autism and breast cancer: Suzy’s story 🤝 The Power of Our Online Network Suzy’s story is a powerful reminder of why this community exists. A place where you can: Connect on your own terms Share honestly and safely Feel understood without explanation Find support from people who truly “get it” 💛 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going We are so grateful to Suzy for sharing her experience - and for reminding us that our Online Network is not just a platform, but a community built by each of you. We’d love to hear from you: What helps you cope in your own way? How do you manage connection and overwhelm? What has your experience been like with treatment side effects? Your voice matters here. 💬🎧 Have you connected with our podcast: Upfront About Breast Cancer
Within our Online Network, we know how important it is to feel informed, supported, and connected at every stage of a breast cancer experience. One of the many ways we support our community is through our Upfront About Breast Cancer podcast. This is a resource created for you, where real stories, expert insights, and practical guidance come together in a way that is easy to access whenever you need it. A much loved part of the podcast is the What You Don’t Know Until You Do series, hosted by Dr Charlotte Tottman. Dr Tottman is a psycho oncologist who has supported many people through the emotional impact of cancer and, following her own breast cancer diagnosis. Her thoughtful and compassionate approach creates a space where the emotional side of breast cancer can be explored openly, helping listeners better understand their own responses and feel less alone in what they are experiencing. 💬 Real conversations from our community Upfront About Breast Cancer brings together the voices that matter most. People with lived experience share their stories alongside healthcare professionals and experts, creating conversations that feel both genuine and reassuring. These discussions reflect the reality of breast cancer. They explore the shock of diagnosis, the emotional highs and lows, and what it can take to adjust to life during and after treatment. For many, simply hearing someone else say “me too” can make a powerful difference. 🌱 Supporting you at every stage We know that every experience is different, which is why Upfront About Breast Cancer is designed to support people across all stages. Whether you are newly diagnosed, living with metastatic breast cancer, supporting a loved one, or moving through life after treatment, there is something here for you. Episodes cover important topics such as what to expect after diagnosis, how to communicate with your healthcare team, managing side effects, and navigating the healthcare system. This means you can return to the information in your own time, absorb it at your own pace, and feel more prepared for the next step in your journey. 👉 Listen to Upfront About Breast Cancer podcast here. 🌸 A gentle reminder Some topics may feel emotional or challenging. Please take things at your own pace and look after yourself as you listen. Support is always available, the online community and our Helpline on the phones are here for you. Have you listened to Upfront About Breast Cancer? We'd love if you shared: an episode that stayed with you something new you learned a conversation you would like to hear in the future 💪 Your experience may help someone else going through a challenging part of their journey. We are stronger, together.🌱Wednesday Wellness - 18Mar26 - Living beyond limits of breast cancer🌱
Hi everyone. This Wednesday Wellness, we felt inspired to honour the strength it takes to live beyond the limits that cancer can place on people. Cancer changes routines, energy, emotions, and plans, but it never gets the final say in who someone is. Every day, people facing cancer show extraordinary courage in the quietest ways: getting out of bed, asking for help, attending appointments, smiling through fear, or simply choosing hope when life feels heavy. These moments matter. They are victories! 💪 Beyond the limits of cancer is a space filled with: ✨ Resilience - the ability to rise again, even when strength feels hard ✨ Community - the comfort of knowing you don’t walk this path alone ✨ Joy - found in small moments that illness cannot touch ✨ Possibility - the reminder that life is still here, still meaningful, still yours Whether you’re in treatment, living with breast cancer, supporting someone you love or honouring another's journey, take a breath today and remind yourself: You are more than this moment. You are more than a diagnosis. 💪 Kristal - Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro Earlier this week you will have seen our post about Kristal, breast cancer survivor who climbed Mount Kilimanjaro as a personal goal and fundraiser for BCNA earlier this month. You are an inspiration Kristal! Read more here 💪 Dragons Abreast - If you're feeling adventurous! Dragons Abreast Australia brings breast cancer survivors together through dragon boating, helping them regain physical strength, confidence, and wellbeing after treatment. Their inclusive teams welcome people of all fitness levels and backgrounds, creating a supportive space to reconnect with their bodies and rebuild hope. With more than 30 groups nationwide, members find friendship, encouragement, and a sense of belonging as they paddle side by side. Through their visibility and community presence, Dragons Abreast also helps raise awareness about breast cancer and the power of active recovery. Each boat on the water is a symbol of resilience and a reminder that healing is stronger when shared. Get in touch with Dragons Abreast here. Whilst climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or dragonboating might not be what you had in mind, ask yourself, what small actions you can take this week to live beyond the limits of breast cancer ❤️ Let everyone know your tips in the comments!🏔️ 6 People, 5,895 metres, and one incredible cause
We’re in awe of the incredible team of six (and support crew) who recently climbed Mount Kilimanjaro to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia. 🌍✨Initiated by BCNA member Kristal, who dreamed of trekking the Roof of Africa with friends to fundraise, this journey was brought to life with the help of @Inspired Adventures fundraising agency. But “trekking” doesn't quite cover what this group faced. 💪The team endured some of the toughest conditions their guides had ever seen. They battled snowstorms, gale-force winds, and altitude sickness, yet they persevered through every hurdle. For Kristal, this was deeply personal. With a breast cancer experience of her own, she was joined by her partner, close friends, and teammates who hiked in memory of their mothers. 👣❤️ ‘Trips like these are truly once-in-a-lifetime experiences. They build character and test you in ways that go far beyond the physical – mentally, emotionally and spiritually. This trek reminded me that I am capable, that I am strong, and that I have a powerful mindset and willpower to face adversity and tough moments.’ - Kristal If you'd like, you can donate to Kristal & team's fundraising page at: 🔗 https://bcna.grassrootz.com/bcna-kilimanjaro-2026March 8th - International Women's Day 🌟
BCNA was founded by women affected by breast cancer who believed there had to be a better way. 💗 A better way to communicate. A better way to deliver care. A better way to show kindness, dignity and humanity. That belief still drives our work today. This International Women’s Day, we celebrated the power of collective action. The UN Women Australia 2026 theme is “Balance the Scales”. When women come together to challenge the systems that shape their futures, real change happens. ‘For BCNA, “Balance the scales” means helping women navigate a breast cancer healthcare system that was not designed for them. We also change that system by working with health professionals and government, making sure we are at the table every time a decision is made about breast cancer,’ says Kirsten Pilatti, CEO of BCNA. At BCNA, women with lived experience lead change. Through advocacy, community and shared voices, we are reshaping systems so everyone affected by breast cancer can access the care, treatment and support they deserve. 💗 And finally, a little shout‑out to the amazing women right here in our online community. You’re the heart of this space - showing up for each other with honesty, humour, courage, and compassion. Whether you’re sharing your story, offering a tip that helped you through a tough moment, or simply reminding someone that they’re not alone, you make this community what it is. Here's to you! 🥂📣 20,950 Australians.
After 27 years of BCNA advocacy, we've reached a milestone moment: For the first time, Australia has a national figure for people living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). That number is 20,950 Australians. These are people with unique, long-term needs who, until now, have been invisible in our health data and largely overlooked in health system planning. On 27 November, we officially announced this landmark data alongside our report; 👉 From invisibility to influence: progress on MBC data reforms in Australia. Together, we can ensure this data translates into meaningful change. People with MBC deserve a health system that sees them, plans for them, and supports them to live longer and live well. This data gives us the foundation to make that happen - but only if we maintain the momentum. What can you do? Sign BCNA's pledge calling for investment in ongoing MBC data collection in all states and territories. 👉 Sign the pledge today 📞 For further support or questions about this announcement, call our Helpline on 1800 500 258 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm AEDT🌸 What a Day! Carman’s Fun Run Sydney 🌸
It was incredible to see Metcalfe Park into a sea of pink for Carman’s Fun Run. There were 3000 runners and walkers that laced up, participated and stayed to enjoy the event village under the sunny skies of Sydney. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who: 🏃♀️ Ran or walked alongside us 🎉 Cheered from the sidelines 🤝 Partnered with us to make it all happen 💌 Supported from afar We hope you’re enjoying a well-earned break this week — and don’t forget to polish those medals! 🏅
Come & try dragon boating in Melbourne!!!
Come & try dragon boating for Breast Cancer Survivors with Dragons Abreast Melbourne Pink Phoenix!!! We invite all breast cancer survivors and their supporters in the Melbourne area to come & try dragon boating for free during October in Docklands! Come and experience the wonderful benefits of outdoor exercise and support from fellow breast cancer survivors in beautiful Victoria Harbour! You can come as many times as you like during October, for free! We're always looking for new members and we can't wait to meet you! For more info and to register: https://www.revolutionise.com.au/pinkphoenix/home/Remembering Olivia Newton-John
We were all saddened by yesterday's news that Olivia Newton-John had passed away. She was an inspiration to many, as she very generously chose to open up her life and share her story to help others affected by breast cancer. We know it was a tough day for many in our network, but it was also an opportunity to celebrate Olivia's dedication to improving patient-centred care and raise awareness of metastatic breast cancer. What a legacy to leave behind and one BCNA is proud to continue in our mission to ensure everyone affected by breast cancer receives the very best care, treatment and support. Yesterday we were honoured to be asked to talk about Olivia's work and impact on breast cancer research and treatment. Our CEO, Kirsten Pilatti, and Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services, Vicki Durston, spoke with media outlets The Age, Mamamia, ABC and 3AW about Olivia's dedication to looking after the whole person and not only treating the disease - something BCNA is also passionate about. If hearing this news has been hard for you, our Helpline can offer support so please call them on 1800 500 258.
