Auckland Woman Advocates for Funding of Breast Cancer Treatment

An Auckland woman, Catherine Cooke, is making a passionate appeal to New Zealand’s Parliament for funding of breast cancer treatments that are currently not covered. Cooke, who is battling early-stage triple negative breast cancer, has spent months advocating for better access to essential therapies. Her efforts included presenting a petition to the parliamentary petitions select committee while managing her own health challenges.

Cooke was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2024 at the age of 53. After undergoing chemotherapy, she has received eight cycles of the immunotherapy drug Keytruda. Unfortunately, her situation has worsened as her cancer has now metastasised, prompting additional treatment costs. Reflecting on her journey, Cooke stated, “the hits just keep coming,” highlighting the financial and emotional toll of her condition.

Call for Change in Funding Policies

Currently, Keytruda is funded by the New Zealand government for advanced stages of triple negative breast cancer but is not available for those diagnosed in earlier stages. This discrepancy has significant implications for patients like Cooke, who are seeking effective treatment options. She argues that all breast cancer patients should have access to the best possible care, regardless of the stage of their diagnosis.

In September, Cooke learned that it might take up to a year for the petitions select committee to respond to her plea. Despite this long wait, she remains undeterred. On a recent visit to Parliament, she made an in-person submission on her petition, calling for urgent changes to the funding policies for immunotherapy drugs. Her advocacy aims to ensure that no other patients face the same financial burden and uncertainty in their treatment options.

As a business advisor and a mother of two, Cooke balances her professional responsibilities with her health struggles. Her commitment to advocating for funding reflects not only her plight but also the challenges faced by many others in similar situations. By bringing her story to the forefront, Cooke hopes to influence policymakers and raise awareness about the hidden costs associated with breast cancer treatment in New Zealand.

The outcome of her petition and the potential changes in funding could have a lasting impact on the lives of many breast cancer patients. Cooke’s determination serves as a reminder of the importance of equitable access to healthcare and the need for continuous support for those affected by this disease. As her journey continues, she remains a strong voice for change, advocating for a system that prioritizes patient care and access to necessary treatments.