North Haven resident Joanne Sampson was a healthy and active 53-year-old prior to her diagnosis of stage three breast cancer in November 2019.
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The news came as a devastating shock to the single mum of three daughters, who had no family history of the disease and no warning signs leading up the the diagnosis.
Abbie is Joanne's youngest daughter at 22-years-old and said it's been tough to see the physical impact of the treatment on her mum.
A tumour was discovered after Joanne had a mammogram and biopsy. A doctor delivered the news to Abbie and Joanne.
Since the diagnosis, Joanne has undergone surgery to remove the tumour and some lymph nodes.
Chemotherapy began in January and Abbie said her mum could hardly move from her bed for two weeks after the first round of the treatment.
Joanne will endure six rounds of chemotherapy every three weeks.
The diagnosis has meant Joanne can no longer work full time as a drug and alcohol intake officer for NSW Health.
Abbie, who also works full time has had to cut down on her hours so she can support her mum when needed.
Abbie said her mother her always been a strong and determined woman and worked really hard to ensure her daughters have always been supported.
"She's given us everything, we were never short on anything. She's amazing," she said.
Outside of caring for her children and working, Joanne enjoyed riding her motorcycle and was a member of a local group.
Joanne's daughters have organised a fundraiser for their mum to ease the financial burden the disease is having on the family.
The event is on Saturday, March 28 at Settlers Inn Hotel and will kick off at 4pm.
Malinda, Joanne's eldest daughter and Joanne's friend Dale will cut their hair to help raise money on the night.
Local businesses have made donations for a raffle and auction on the night.
Abbie thanked Alistair Flower, owner of Settlers Inn, for his support of the fundraiser.
If you would like to make a donation online, please visit the gofundme page and search for Malinda and Dale Cut it for Cancer.
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