3.5 yrs ago, she was diagnosed with a melanoma that was removed, along with a lymph node & given the all clear.

9 months later another lump was found under her armpit. It was found that it had also spread to her brain, shoulder, left humerus, lung and spleen. She has undergone immunotherapy, which was initially successful. She was again given the all clear in April, allowed the ring the bell at Nelson hospital which signifies end of treatment.

A month later she had her routine 3 month CT scan, and it was found that the tumour under her arm has grown again. Unfortunately the tumour in the armpit is inoperable due to its position. She now requires Oral Chemotherapy - Cobimetenib & Vemurafenib, as the next course of action. In NZ this treatment is unfunded.