People - Vivienne's Journey with Courage and Grace
At 64, Vivienne faced a life-altering diagnosis: stage 4 bowel cancer. Born in Invercargill, New Zealand, and now residing in Brisbane, Australia, her experience with the “Big C” has been one of challenge, transformation, and surprising revelations.
Vivienne’s diagnosis came with a daunting prognosis—just a few months to live. What followed was an intense treatment journey, including months of intravenous chemotherapy and combined radiation and oral chemotherapy. Despite the grueling nature of these treatments, Vivienne’s determination shone through as she explored complementary approaches to support her health. A committed vegan, she leaned into a nutrient-rich diet and embraced a regimen of prescribed vitamins, courtesy of her naturopath best friend in Melbourne.
A New Perspective on Life
“Cancer opened my eyes,” Vivienne reflects. Before her diagnosis, she was deeply entrenched in the corporate world—a self-described “workhorse.” But stepping away from her career, albeit unwillingly, shifted her priorities. “I now know work isn’t important to me,” she says, acknowledging how the experience redefined her values.
Yet, the transition wasn’t without pain. The financial strain of leaving her job while undergoing treatment has been a significant challenge, and her plans to move to France were put on hold as international borders closed. Stuck in Brisbane, Vivienne faced an added heartbreak: the loss of many friends and even family members. “They abandoned me,” she shares candidly. “I don’t whine, so I’m unsure why.”
Her story is a sobering reminder of the isolation that cancer can bring, but it’s also a call to action. Vivienne urges others to reach out, both to offer support and to seek it. “I kept the news to myself and found it very lonely and stressful,” she admits, wishing she’d opened up sooner.
A Healthier Way Forward
Cancer has changed Vivienne’s lifestyle in lasting ways. She’s become more mindful about her diet, avoiding processed foods, and has incorporated more exercise into her routine. These habits, born from necessity, have become part of her new normal, supporting her well-being and sense of control.
Her advice for those supporting someone with cancer is heartfelt: “Don’t dump them.” Being present, even in small ways, can make an enormous difference to someone navigating such a tumultuous journey.
Finding the Silver Linings
Amid the challenges, Vivienne has found unexpected positives. Her diagnosis forced her to step back from a high-pressure career and gave her clarity about what truly matters in life. “Work isn’t everything,” she emphasizes—a lesson many of us could benefit from hearing.
Through her resilience and openness, Vivienne offers inspiration to anyone facing cancer, as well as those supporting a loved one through it. Her journey reminds us of the power of community, the importance of prioritizing health, and the value of living authentically.
To anyone navigating a similar path, Vivienne shares this advice: “Reach out to people.” It’s a simple yet profound reminder that even in the darkest times, connection can be a lifeline.
We’re grateful to Vivienne for sharing her story—it’s one of courage, transformation, and a relentless will to find meaning in the face of adversity.
