Ballarat mum Danika Meade with stage 4 cancer vows to 'stay strong' for little boy

Despite facing the unthinkable, this Ballarat mum refuses to shed tears for herself – only for her young son's uncertain future.

Ballarat mum Danika Meade says her focus is on son Alex, 3, as she fights for her life following a stage 4 cancer diagnosis. Picture: supplied

A Ballarat mum, 33, is in the fight of her life after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.

Danika Meade received the shocking diagnosis two weeks ago.

She has already endured multiple surgeries and will start chemotherapy just days before Christmas.

Despite the difficult road ahead Danika is determined to “stay strong and positive”.

Any tears have been shed for her son, Alex, 3, and the thought of leaving him.

“I’m not upset for myself,” she says.

Danika is “terrified” but determined to stay positive. Picture: supplied

“My fears are about his future being uncertain.

“But I’m not going to let negative thoughts take over.”

Despite being “terrified” of what lies ahead, Danika is also overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from friends, family and even strangers.

An online fundraiser has collected more than $20,000 in just three days and the donations are continuing to flow.

“I’m blown away,” she said.

“It just goes to show how far kindness can take you.”

Her sister Mikayla Stuchbery is not surprised

“Anyone who knows her will tell you the same: she gives endlessly. she pours her entire heart into raising her little boy,” she said.

“Every single day, she gives, and now it’s time for us to give back to her.”

Before the cancer diagnosis turned her world upside down Danika was busy working two jobs – as a hairdresser in her home salon and for Bunnings.

More than $20,000 has been raised for the young Bunnings worker. Picture: supplied

Mikayla said the fundraiser would help pay for Danika’s treatment and frequent journeys to Melbourne.

“Through personal donations she’s already been able to access some treatment from the Peter Mac Cancer Centre and it’s made a big difference,” she said.

“I’ve had a vitamin C treatment and for the first time since I got the diagnosis I’m feeling happy and confident,” Danika said.

Mikayla and friend Jayde Jarvis are planning another fundraiser for Danika.

The event is still being finalised but will include raffles and an auction and be held in Ballarat on December 20.

You can support Danika’s online fundraiser here.