Donna Mullens, a 49-year-old mother from Narara, is receiving community support as she battles a rare spinal cancer. After enduring severe back pain, which she previously managed through natural childbirth, Ms. Mullens sought medical help multiple times at Gosford Hospital. Each visit resulted in tests that failed to identify the source of her discomfort, with doctors focusing on her heart and lungs.
It was not until her fifth visit in three weeks that an MRI revealed a tumour, prompting an immediate referral to Royal North Shore Hospital. In April, she was diagnosed with an astrocytoma glioma, a type of cancer typically found in children’s brains. As part of her treatment, she is participating in a trial drug regimen alongside chemotherapy administered weekly for two years. Additionally, she underwent 30 days of maximum-dose radiation therapy and surgery to remove part of the tumour.
The surgery, however, led to complications, including a significant fluid build-up in her spine, resulting in paralysis from the waist down. For nearly four weeks, Ms. Mullens was bedbound but is now in a rehabilitation centre learning to use a wheelchair and manage daily activities.
Community Efforts to Facilitate Homecoming
In a heartwarming response to her situation, local tradesmen have volunteered their skills to renovate Ms. Mullens’ home. Her daughter, Shyla Moore, expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “They are a godsend. They’ve done renovations with free labour. All I have to try to fund are the materials.”
The renovations include a new bathroom and a ramp to make the home accessible, as the family’s front door is situated at the top of 10 steps. The community’s involvement has been significant; tradesmen have dedicated their Saturdays for weeks to ensure the home is ready for Ms. Mullens’ return.
To further assist with expenses, Shyla launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Bring Donna Home.” Within just eight hours, the campaign raised approximately $20,000, highlighting the impact Ms. Mullens has had on her community. “Mum has 700 friends on Facebook. Everyone knows her,” Shyla noted.
Ms. Mullens is well-regarded in Narara, having been an active member of various local sports, including dancing, football, basketball, and netball. She has served as a coach and manager, fostering relationships that have only strengthened during this challenging time.
A Family Coping with Challenges
The emotional toll on the family has been profound. Shyla, alongside her siblings Aria, 19, and Sonny, 12, as well as their father, Kris, are striving to maintain a sense of normalcy. “We’re strong people. We don’t sit here and cry, but it’s definitely affected everyone differently,” Shyla explained. The family is staying active, coping with their mother’s absence while receiving daily visits from friends and supporters.
As they navigate this difficult journey, there is hope that treatment may allow Ms. Mullens to regain mobility. “If they can shrink the tumour, they don’t know how damaged the spinal nerves will be,” Shyla said. Family and friends remain optimistic, believing that if the tumour shrinks, there is a chance Ms. Mullens could learn to walk again.
This collective effort underscores the resilience of community bonds in times of need, exemplifying how compassion can bring hope during challenging circumstances.
