A child’s birth is one of the happiest moments in a parent’s life, and for one new mum it’s a moment she has been fighting to have for two years.
Michelle Buchholtz, 38, was diagnosed with stage four breast cancer in October 2012.
She underwent a double mastectomy and before starting chemotherapy a blood test confirmed she was pregnant. Michelle had to terminate two babies because of cancer treatment and possible abnormalities.
But on Friday, she and her husband were finally able to welcome a new baby. At 29 weeks, Michelle gave birth to a daughter.
The joy of holding her baby girl has given her more to fight for. Her latest MRI results revealed the cancer has spread. Three weeks ago, she had three to five years to live; a week ago, that was changed to 12 months.
While the cancer is rapidly moving through her body, Michelle’s husband Alexander Ansalone, says it had done nothing to diminish his wife’s fight, nor his admiration for her.
“It is breaking my heart to see her in this state,” he said. “For anyone who knows Michelle, she is a fighter and the most positive person I have had the pleasure of meeting.”
Alexander says the cost of fighting cancer is high, with vitamin C treatments to strengthen Michelle’s immune system costing $2880 a month. Blood tests sent overseas to determine their effectiveness cost $1200 each.
Michelle grew up in Deer Park, where her family still lives, and the community has come out to show its support via a My Cause fundraising page set up by the family.
At the time Star Weekly went to print, the appeal had raised $20,445 which will go towards treatment in China, which is hoped will prolong Michelle’s life. The target is $50,000.
Deer Park resident and Michelle’s childhood friend, Tracey Ellison, said Michelle was the most beautiful woman she knew, someone who always had a smile.
“She’s always been the cute blonde-haired girl with the dimples,” Tracey said. “She’s placid, sweet and always has a big smile. It just shouldn’t happen to a person like Michelle.”
Tracey said the couple was trying everything possible to protect their baby girl and prolong Michelle’s life so she can enjoy her husband and their new baby.
Donate at Michelle’s My Cause page: bit.ly/1wV3sgm
