Brave plan to beat cancer
SIETSKE Nobel travelled a long way to make a home in Australia.
Born in the Netherlands, she moved to Bridgetown permanently five years ago but now faces a more difficult and painful journey.
It began when three aunts on her father's side died from breast and ovarian cancer, and a cousin was diagnosed with breast cancer in her early 40s.
"I went to the genetic cancer centre up in Perth where they have counsellors and people who deal with genetic cancer and I got myself tested," Ms Nobel said.
"All it takes is a blood sample."
Ms Nobel, 37, has decided to speak publicly about the results in the hope others may benefit.
"Hopefully it will help other women and make them stronger on their journey," she said.
As she feared, the test confirmed she carried a faulty BRAC2 gene, which dramatically increases her risk of cancer.
"Because you're not sick, people don't understand why it's so difficult and what you're going through," she said.
After taking medical advice, at just 37 she has decided on a hysterectomy and double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery rather than risk illness.
"I don't want to keep living in fear," she said. "I've been scared about the surgery, but I don't want to wait until it's too late and end up with breast cancer."
Now on a 12-month waiting list, she is continuing with the horse care and breeding business she has established on a 73ha farm south of Bridgetown.
Another focus is raising awareness and money for cancer research, initially with a cake stall on January 31 at the Hampton Street kiosk, and then a walk in Bridgetown.
She and a team of supporters will also join a longer walk in Perth in March to raise funds for the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.
Donations can be made to Ms Nobel's team, 'Let's Dutch It', at www.endcancer.org.au .
