Adelaide couple’s double cancer diagnosis bombshell sparks fundraising appeal

Friends and family are now rallying around the southern suburbs couple after they received two sets of devastating news in one day.

Adelaide couple Steve and Kirsty Lee were embracing their “crazy and hectic” life with two children under five before a cruel twist of fate.

The couple were both diagnosed with cancer on the same day.

Ms Lee was diagnosed on November 22 with stage three breast cancer. Mr Lee received a diagnosis of rectal cancer the same day.

The couple’s friend, Sonya Kohlhagen, organised a GoFundMe for them to cope with rent, bills, medical treatment, groceries and looking after their children.

Adelaide couple Steve and Kirsty Lee where diagnosed with cancer on the same day, they have two young children. Picture: GoFundMe

Kirsty and Steve Lee were diagnosed with cancer on the same day. Picture: Facebook

“They are usually an active family, they love bike rides, going to the beach, visiting family and friends. They are very family focused, they love spending time as a family,” Ms Kohlhagen said.

Aged just 44, Ms Lee will have a minimum 12 months of chemotherapy and will have to have a mastectomy. Mr Lee, also 44, has a minimum of six months of chemo and radiation.

“They are positive in terms of prognosis, they are just in shock processing what the next 12 months will be like. Both being sick at the same time, trying to support each other as well as care for the children.” Ms Kohlhagen said.

Ms Kohlhagen said the couple lives in Adelaide’s South, Ms Lee works for the government and Mr Lee works in timber sales.

Adelaide couple Steve and Kirsty Lee where diagnosed with cancer on the same day, they have two young children. Picture: GoFundMe

Adelaide couple Steve and Kirsty Lee where diagnosed with cancer on the same day, they have two young children. Picture: GoFundMe

“My husband Trent has been one of Steve’s closest friends since they were teenagers and we wanted to do something to support them financially. Their workplaces are obviously trying to be supportive and flexible but no one has 12 months of personal leave up their sleeve.” Ms Kohlhagen said.

Ms Kohlhagen said on the GoFundMe page that they’ll probably need to move out of their house as a result of their diagnoses.

“But to see them go through it at the same time, and with kids at that age, that’s what really breaks my heart.” she wrote.

As of Tuesday, the fundraiser has raised $14,625 of a $15,000 goal. Donate to the GoFundMe here.