LANI Fisher thought she was given a death sentence 11 years ago when she was diagnosed with inoperable stage three B cervical cancer.
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She underwent rigorous chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment which was successful, but had life altering side-effects.
Four years later, in 2007, the cancer returned in her para-aortic lymph nodes and, again, she went through radiation treatment as well a major surgery.
Lani’s amazing story of survival is one of many that will be celebrated during this weekend’s Relay for Life.
The relay is a time for remembering those who have lost their battles with cancer and celebrating with those who have survived, as well as fighting back against a disease that touches so many.
Life has not been easy for Lani, who raised her two children as a single mum and lost her son, Adam, 14 years ago, but she always has a positive outlook and takes each day as it comes.
It is her determination, infectious smile and willingness to help others in their time of need that earned her the Heidi Brook Memorial Award at last year’s Relay for LIfe.
Relay coordinator Caz Boland described Lani as “an amazing and inspirational person”.
“She is a member of the relay committee and looks after the survivors and carers walk,” Caz said.
“She does anything that is needed really.”
Caz said Lani was presented with the award for sharing Heidi’s determination, strength and spirit both during the relay and in everyday life.
“She’s done some really amazing things in our community, without seeking any recognition.
“A couple of kids lost their mums last year and she got a team of women together to cook meals for the families and go around to their houses and check on them.
“One of the kids was doing their HSC and it was a really hard time.
“She’s just so thoughtful.”
Lani said she was “shocked and honoured” to be presented with the award by Heidi’s son Luke McKinnon.
“I couldn’t believe it,” she said.
“I got so emotional, because Heidi was my good friend and, when I looked into Luke’s beautiful face, I was overwhelmed.”
Caz said there was still time for people to nominate members of the community for this year’s award.
While the cancer treatment has left Lani with a host of bowel, bladder, kidney and circulation problems, she enjoys each and every day, especially when she is spending time with her daughter Jessica Histon and her two granddaughters Thalia, 2, and baby Maddison.
“When Thalia was born, she put the sunshine back into my life,” Lani said.
“She helped me recover and I tell her that all the time.
“I have battled two bouts of cancer, but I have learned to adjust and adapt and to be able to enjoy each day with my gorgeous family.”
Lani is encouraging people to take part in the Relay for Life and for survivors and carers to step out during the opening lap of honour, before coming together for morning tea.
“The relay provides a connection and a kind of camaraderie between those who have had cancer or lost a loved one.
“It’s the same with the carers, who are often forgotten, but who go through so much watching their loved ones fighting cancer.”
Survivors and carers can register online via the Cancer Council website for the opening lap or just turn up on the day, while nominations for the Heidi Brook Award should be emailed to Caz on boland30@bigpond.com.
