A young Lesmurdie mother is urging West Australians to support cancer research, following a life-changing cancer diagnosis at just 30.
Daniella Catania, a busy mum, first noticed extreme fatigue, bone pain, and swollen lymph nodes while caring for her two-year-old daughter, but initially brushed it off.
"I thought that's just what life is like with a toddler," Daniella said. "I never imagined it could be cancer."
Tests revealed she had Stage 3 Hodgkin lymphoma. Daniella began six months of intensive chemotherapy, attending sessions every two weeks at Royal Perth Hospital. The treatment forced her to keep her distance from her daughter for days after each session to protect her from toxic side effects.
"The hardest part was not being able to hug or kiss my daughter," she said.
"However, support from family, friends, and Cancer Council WA – including practical help at home and tailored exercise programs – helped me through my treatment."
Now nearly three years in remission, Daniella says the experience has changed her outlook.
There really is life after cancer, and I hope sharing my story will raise awareness of cancer and the importance of continued research to improve treatments and reduce long-term side effects for future patients like me.
Cancer Council WA CEO, Ashley Reid, said they were hoping to raise $350,000 through the appeal to allow cancer researchers in WA to continue their ground-breaking work.
"We are so grateful the WA community donate so generously to support cancer research as it gives people like Daniella hope," Mr Reid said.
It enables researchers to innovate and test completely new ideas and approaches. Research allows us to understand more about the causes of cancer, improve diagnostics, reduce treatment effects and tailor supportive care.
"Survival rates for some of the most common cancers including breast, melanoma and prostate cancer are now more than 90 per cent, and the overall five-year survival rate for all cancers is more than 70 per cent.
"However, with 14,000 West Aussies diagnosed with cancer every year, we must continue to fund the best local researchers to improve diagnosis, detection and treatment for every cancer.
"I urge you to donate and help Cancer Council WA unlock the answers to a cancer free future."
To donate to the appeal, visit https://donate.cancerwa.asn.au/tax-appeal
All donations over $2 are tax deductible and can be claimed if made by 30 June 2026.
