In 2018, just six months after having a hysterectomy for adenomyosis, Nicola developed painful, itchy lumps on her vulva. It had never crossed her mind that cancer could appear there.

Her GP referred her to a gynaecological oncologist, who confirmed—after a punch biopsy—that Nicola had vulvar cancer.

Faced with two treatment options, radiation and chemotherapy or surgery, Nicola chose the first. Over six gruelling weeks, she endured daily radiation and weekly chemotherapy, resulting in burns, blistering, and ongoing pain. Her husband, Richard, was by her side every step of the way—driving her to appointments and caring for her through the long and difficult aftermath.

Six months later, Nicola returned to her work as a schoolteacher, but the physical and emotional impact of treatment made it challenging. Three years on, the cancer returned. This time, radical surgery was required. Surgeons removed the tumour, inserted a stoma, and rebuilt the area. The recovery was long and painful, involving months of infections, discomfort, and mobility issues.

In 2021, life dealt another blow when Richard was diagnosed with incurable bowel cancer. He passed away in December 2022. Their experience fuelled Nicola’s determination to speak out and raise awareness of vulvar cancer.

“Vulvar cancer is rare and isolating,” Nicola said. “There’s little support compared to other cancers. I used to be embarrassed, but now I speak openly and encourage other women to keep asking questions and advocate for themselves.”

Seven years after her diagnosis, Nicola continues to rebuild her life. While she lives with the fear of recurrence, she is determined to keep the conversation going—because talking about it could save lives.

With your support this End of Financial Year, we can fund life-changing research, raise awareness of gynaecological cancers, and give women the information they need to recognise the signs early.

Please give today and help us continue to drive progress for women facing these devastating cancers.

If you would like to ask a question about fundraising or give us some feedback, please contact us via the form and let’s chat.

Alternatively, please contact Amy Hyslop, Fundraising and Development Manager on 0488 333 723 or email fundraising@cherish.org.au

You can also direct message us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

If you need professional, confidential support about a gynaecological cancer diagnosis or treatment, please call Cancer Council’s free service on 13 11 20.

Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation | Registered as Gynaecological Cancer Foundation Ltd | ABN 86 158 553 229