In just a few months, 24-year-old Rosie Emmens’ life was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with stage one papillary thyroid cancer. Now, she’s participating in Cancer Council’s March Charge fundraising event to raise awareness that cancer can affect young people, and to offer support to others facing a cancer diagnosis.
Tell us about your cancer diagnosis.
In the middle of 2024 I began to experience extreme fatigue, difficulty swallowing and sore joints. I felt something wasn’t quite right with my health. I’m quite a fit, young individual so these symptoms were initially misdiagnosed.
On the day of my 24th birthday I woke up with a noticeably large lump on my throat. Without hesitation, I booked another doctor’s appointment. He ordered an ultrasound, followed by a biopsy, and a few weeks later, I got the call to go and see my GP. It was then that I was diagnosed with stage one papillary thyroid cancer. It was a huge shock and something I’m still trying to process. I had a partial thyroidectomy in October 2024 and have been told I’ll be on medication for the rest of my life. This year I will have another surgery to remove the rest of my thyroid. I’m physically feeling much better and now under an excellent care team.
Why are you are participating in the March Charge?
I’m participating in the March Charge this year to do my part in raising money and awareness for cancer treatment and prevention. I am really passionate about having the opportunity to take part in something that will help others facing a similar experience. I’m also very passionate about fitness and believe this is a great challenge to promote a healthy lifestyle while raising money for a very important cause.
My current goal is to raise $600 for Cancer Council, however I’m hoping to increase it once the challenge commences.
How has your cancer experience influenced your decision to take part in this challenge?
In the span of just a matter of months everything changed for me. My family and I have been on an emotional rollercoaster trying to process not just the cancer diagnosis, but also life after cancer.
The support I have received has been unmatched and I feel passionate about others facing a cancer diagnosis receiving this same support. I feel like participating in this challenge is a no brainer; if I can do something to help others who are going through cancer or treatment, then of course I am going to.
What difference do you hope the money raised will make?
I really hope the funds raised will contribute towards providing treatment for all people and families affected by cancer. A cure to all cancer would be a dream. I also hope to see increased awareness and treatment for young adults.
Given my own personal experience and hearing from other young adults, it seems the possibility of cancer may be overlooked, given our age. It is possible, it does happen, and I believe increased awareness of this would be beneficial.
About the March Charge
The March Charge is a fun, personal fitness challenge that has an enormous impact on how cancer is researched and treated. Just by walking or running for people impacted by cancer this March, and by raising funds for Cancer Council, you can help us charge ahead with research and support services.
Choose to charge solo or get your friends, family, or colleagues together and do it as a team – it’s up to you.
