Coping with cancer

Hands up those who have had—or know someone who’s had—breast cancer? Most or maybe all of us would.  After all, breast cancer is the most common cancer for women, and even some men are diagnosed with the disease as well.

In 1991, the Breast Cancer Support Service Tauranga Trust was set up to help people in the wider Bay of Plenty region who are suffering from breast cancer. Sometimes, those who are newly diagnosed are in a state of shock and cannot always count on those closest to them for the support that they need. Breast Cancer Support is made up of generous volunteers who have had breast cancer themselves, so they know what it’s like to be on the receiving end of such a diagnosis. They have a special empathy with those who seek help from Breast Cancer Support because they’ve walked—or are still walking—a mile in their shoes.

Apart from emotional support, Breast Cancer Support also offers practical advice and help, such as where people can buy a wig or stocking their freezers with ready-made meals. They’re a place to go to for breast cancer patients to know there’s someone who cares and can help them.  

To further help those with breast cancer, Z Energy paid-it-forward 10 $50 fuel vouchers (that’s $500 worth!) to Breast Cancer Support to be distributed to those under their care who are undergoing treatment. It was a way to help with the added financial pressures that breast cancer patients often have to face—along with all the other stresses. Filling their cars’ fuel tanks became a little easier thanks to Z Energy.

Next time you’re in at a Z station, fueling or powering up your car, think about adding a little to your bill—even $1 or $2 can help—to help with the pay-it-forwards. Chances are, you’ll also be helping someone you know.

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