This is the second time round Sam has fought the disease, after she was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer (stage one clear cell) when she was 31-years-old. 

She underwent a hysterectomy and then chemotherapy in 2012. Sam was told after the chemotherapy treatment she was in remission. 

“It was a really difficult time as I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer just three months after giving birth to my second child,” she said. 

In August, 2017 Sam went to the doctor with a sore back around the kidney area. A scan in Newcastle revealed the news she had been dreading to hear, the ovarian cancer was back, this time in her lymph nodes. 

“I went straight into the gynecology ward at John Hunter Hospital and had three lymph nodes removed from the back of my abdomen,” she said. 

“The surgery was followed by six months of toxic chemotherapy.” 

While Samantha’s hair has started to grow back she said she is still not in the clear yet. 

She might have to undergo radiation and surgery to remove a lymph node in her neck. 

“Hopefully I can kick it,” she said. 

“I’ve got two girls who really need their mother.” 

Samantha has always been an active member of the Camden Haven community. She volunteers at the Camden Haven Surf Lifesaving Club and for the Camden Haven Redbacks.

Unfortunately due to her ongoing treatments she has had to take a break from the childcare work she loves and the financial burden of further treatment is taking its toll.

If you would like to help support Samantha’s fight against ovarian cancer please make a donation through visiting au.gofundme.com/SamsCancersFight