Cynthia Smith was out walking one day with her husband Les when she became breathless.
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The scare prompted her to see her local doctor and after tests it was discovered that she had rectal cancer.
That was two years ago and since her diagnosis Cynthia has undergone chemotherapy and radiation.
Recently Cynthia discovered the cancer has spread throughout her body and is impacting her lungs, kidney and liver.
Cynthia is currently undergoing intense chemotherapy treatment. Unfortunately her daughter Jacqui said the cycle of treatment leaves her bedridden for long periods of time.
Cynthia’s tastebuds have been impacted and she said food now has a ‘metallic’ taste due to the treatment. When she feels up to it Cynthia will go for a walk or visit a local cafe for a drink.
Jacqui said the diagnosis had a devastating impact on the family. Cynthia also has a son Brendan and four grandchildren.
“We know it’s not curable so we’re trying to give her some time for as long as she can to see her grandkids grow up,” she said.
Cynthia said it’s devastating for her brothers and sisters too.
“Nobody has really had cancer in my family except me so it’s a bit of a worry for them,” she said.
Cynthia and her husband Les have been very active within the Camden Haven community for years. They were involved in clubs including touch football, the surf club, netball and swimming club. Cynthia was also involved in the Chamber of Commerce and Laurieton Public School P&C.
The Camden Haven community has rallied behind the Smith family and a fundraising page has been launched to help pay for bills and medical expenses that need to be dealt with while Cynthia receives treatment for the serious illness.
Meanwhile Top Spot Cafe and Cakes is running ‘a coffee for Cynthia' campaign where customers are being given the option of buying their coffee in a specially marked cup.
“We are looking at doing 500 coffees at $5 a coffee and 100 per cent of the proceeds, thanks to the assistance and generosity of our suppliers and partners, will be given to Cynthia for her treatment,” the owners said.
Cynthia said she was very grateful for the community’s support.
“Just can’t thank everyone enough,” she said.
If you would like to give a contribution towards Cynthia’s medical expenses please visit https://www.gofundme.com/cynthias-cancer-battle or purchase a coffee at Top Spot Cafe and Cakes.