Amanda Ne’Roi has bravely spoken out following the tragic death of her daughter, Jaime, who succumbed to cervical cancer after a harrowing struggle to have her health concerns recognised by medical professionals. Jaime, who became a mother for the second time in May 2020, experienced troubling symptoms—spotting, unusual discharge, and stomach upset—yet for over a year, she faced dismissal from multiple doctors.
Despite being aware that something was wrong, her initial gynaecologist attributed her symptoms to post-pregnancy changes and failed to conduct appropriate tests. It wasn’t until a second gynaecologist agreed to perform a laparoscopy in August 2021 that Jaime’s stage 3 cervical cancer diagnosis was made. Unfortunately, by the time she received a proper diagnosis, the cancer had advanced significantly, rendering it inoperable.
Jaime underwent various treatments including radiation and chemotherapy, initially experiencing some respite when her scans showed clear results in December 2021. However, the cancer returned by early 2022, leading to further treatments including a hysterectomy. When the option of immunotherapy arose, the family faced the daunting prospect of financing the medication themselves, which cost $6000 every fortnight. They launched an online fundraiser to cover these expenses. Sadly, treatment was ultimately unsuccessful, and Jaime passed away in July 2023, leaving behind her two young children, Harrison and Indiana.
The incidence of gynaecological cancers, including cervical cancer, has alarmingly increased in Australia, rising from 5.5 cases per 100,000 in 2000 to 8 by 2024, despite the introduction of the HPV vaccine in 2007, which aimed to reduce the incidence of HPV-related cancers. Jaime had been vaccinated against HPV, exemplifying that vaccination alone does not eliminate risks, and underlining the importance of vigilance.
In response to Jaime’s story, major organisations including the Australian New Zealand Gynaecological Oncology Group, Ovarian Cancer Australia, and the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation have united to call for a substantial $100 million investment from the government dedicated to research and improved treatment options for gynaecological cancers. They argue that these cancers are underfunded and require urgent attention, as the survival rates have stagnated compared to other cancers, such as breast cancer.
Professor Clare Scott has emphasised the necessity for enhanced funding to tackle this hidden crisis. With projections indicating a 21 per cent increase in gynaecological cancers over the next decade, he stated, “For too long, gynaecological cancers have been overlooked… we must do better.” The health minister has acknowledged the discussions with the ANZGOG regarding their proposals for improved outcomes for patients with gynaecological cancer.
Jaime’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need for awareness, research, and funding to combat gynaecological cancers and ensure that women receive the care and recognition they deserve.