Nikida is a devoted solo mum, balancing work and the everyday joys and challenges of raising her four children. She’s always there for them, cheering from the sidelines, helping with homework, or creating space for them to thrive. She was enjoying a fun and busy life, but in 2021, her world changed in a way she never expected.
Nikida was diagnosed with low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC), a rare type of ovarian cancer with limited treatment options in New Zealand, and even fewer that are funded. To give her the best chance to access every available treatment, Nikida and her incredibly supportive friends and whānau have crowdfunded. This support has been a lifeline, relieving financial strain and enabling the family to focus on recovery, care, and creating lasting memories together.
After years of abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and a persistent feeling of fullness, an ultrasound revealed a 10cm cyst on her left ovary. Tests confirmed Stage 1a LGSOC. Nikida underwent surgery, and for a time, she was cancer-free. She focused on her family, making the most of everyday moments and celebrating milestones with her children.
In July 2024, during a routine check, a mass was discovered again. Surgery revealed metastasis, including a mass on her bladder, and only a partial resection was possible due to the spread. Nikida has participated in clinical trials and undergone multiple cycles of chemotherapy, managing side effects like fatigue, nausea, neuropathy, and a bowel obstruction. Throughout it all, she has remained steadfast, supported by her children, family, and friends. Her determination is driven by the desire to make memories with her children and the hope that her tamariki will grow up knowing she tried everything to be there for them.
Nikida has a focus on creating amazing memories for herself and her children. She has taken her whānau camping around New Zealand, sharing favorite spots with cousins, and cherishing the simple moments that matter most. Nikida shares that their mantra is “worry less, have fun!”
Nikida’s message to others facing ovarian cancer is simple: trust yourself, ask questions, and keep advocating for your care. She has faced treatments that are experimental, with no guarantees. Nikida has recently learned that her cancer is now incurable, and she is now focused on monitoring progression and exploring palliative treatment. Despite this tough news she continues to navigate each step with courage and determination. As she says, “If someone has to be a guinea pig I’d rather it be me than my beautiful girls. I’d rather try the path so they never need to.”
We are grateful to Nikida for sharing her experience with ovarian cancer and for helping us raise awareness. If you would like to share your story too, please get in touch.