A Townsville woman is calling for community support for her friend battling cancer
Just over a year ago, a Townsville mum was mistakenly diagnosed with Ross River virus. Today, she’s preparing to say goodbye to her two young children. Read her heartbreaking story.
Townsville
Don't miss out on the headlines from Townsville. Followed categories will be added to My News.
In November 2023, Townsville mum Terri-Ann Matthews became severely unwell with what her doctor initially believed was Ross River virus after a blood test.
Despite the diagnosis, Mrs Matthews’ condition gradually worsened, prompting her to return to the doctor.
Her doctor told her to take panadol and rest.
But Mrs Matthews’ close friend Naomi Jamieson had a feeling something was very wrong.
“I said to her husband that she should get a second opinion, because she just seemed to be getting worse and not any better,” Ms Jamieson said.
Two weeks after being admitted to Townsville University Hospital, Ms Matthews was diagnosed with Non Hodgkin’s lymphoma in February.
NHL occurs when the body produces an excessive amount of abnormal lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell.
Ms Jamieson said Ms Matthews’ family was heartbroken to learn the news.
“She’s a young, beautiful person. These terrible things happen to good people and Terri-Ann hasn’t stepped a foot wrong her entire life, she’s the nicest person,” Ms Jamieson said.
Ms Jamieson said her friend was on a list to start stem cell treatment in Brisbane, so started a GoFundMe to help fly Ms Matthews’ two children down with her, which reached close to $4000 in donations.
But things didn’t go as planned.
A few months into her treatment, Ms Matthews received a bone marrow biopsy, which revealed the cancerous cells had spread into her bone marrow.
“She got more sick, so they did a bone marrow test. That put a stop to everything,” Ms Jamieson said.
“The doctors said they have one more chemotherapy they can do to give her a bit more time, but there’s nothing else they could do for her.”
“[Her family] are preparing for her funeral, there’s no treatment that will save her.”
Now, Ms Jamieson is hoping the GoFundMe can raise enough money to support her family after she’s gone.
“It’s to pay for her funeral and anything else that her husband and the children need,” Ms Jamieson said.
“Her son Ethan has autism and global development delay, so he goes to occupational therapy, physio and speech therapy sessions.”
More Coverage
Originally published as A Townsville woman is calling for community support for her friend battling cancer
‘She was screaming’: Teens’ violent rampage in stolen vehicles
An 18-year-old with an “appalling criminal history” deliberately hit a cyclist, while a 15-year-old known as a “prolific property offender” crashed into two cars during a reckless crime spree.
‘Take that leap’: Townsville model to hit the world stage
A Townsville-born model was “honoured” to find out he’d represent Australia in the Manhunt International World Final. Now, he’s hoping to inspire other North Qlders to chase their dreams.