MEDIA RELEASE 14 April 2013

One woman’s breast cancer becomes award winning

Surviving breast cancer twice spurred one Pacific woman to share her personal journey online in a bid to help others and this week, she was recognised for her contribution to the community.

Andrea Fairbairn won a CALI Award from the Five Point Five organisation (CALI stands for: Community, Action, Leadership and Inspiration) http://fivepointfive.org/ for her website www.breastcancernirvana.co.nz.

The website shares the stories of breast cancer survivors, practical advice and tips.

Andrea says she is thrilled to receive the award for what started as an outlet for her to cope with her own diagnosis.
Normally quite shy, Andrea says “If my website can help demystify breast cancer somewhat, and reduce the fear and stigma of breast cancer, even if just a little, then it’s been worthwhile.”
Andrea began documenting her story online in 2011 when she was diagnosed for the second time on her 39th birthday. Now 45, Andrea says it’s been different the second time round.
“When I had breast cancer the first time, everything was new to me so the second time round I knew what to expect. But I felt I had more of a sense of purpose in trying to help other women who were going through the same thing and so I started the website”.
Of Samoan descent, she was also keen to raise awareness amongst Pacific and Maori women. Statistics show that they are more likely to die from breast cancer, more likely to get more aggressive forms of cancer, and less likely to go for mammograms.
She says the website has enabled her to reach out to a wider audience not only here but overseas.

“Women have told me they want to see more success stories of people come through Breast Cancer with flying colours. If it gives people a little certainty about what to expect then it’s worth it,” Andrea says.
“I wanted it to help people find some peace, support and inspiration - that breast cancer could take people to a good and potentially better life post-cancer. Breast cancer changes your life and many people I have spoken to talk about how it helped to change their lives for the better. Not everyone obviously but there is potential for something positive to come out of it” she explains.

http://fivepointfive.org/ started the CALI Awards to recognise inspiring people who utilise leadership in creating positive change for people or the world around us. CALI Award recipients are willing to do what it takes to make a difference and celebrated for what they are – modern day heroes.

ENDS