Amanda Hedges regrets that she spent so much time “just existing.”
At 31, she thought there was plenty of time for seaside holidays, zoo trips, or splurging on snacks at Costco. With only one grandparent gone and no serious health issues, she assumed a long life awaited her. So, she devoted most of her time to work and worry.
Now, she is facing a terminal cancer diagnosis.
Amanda, a Brisbane woman, has Glioblastoma, a severe brain cancer. It’s inoperable, and while she undergoes rounds of chemo and radiotherapy, there’s no cure.
“The goal is to extend my life; the cancer won’t go away,” she told FEMAIL. Her battle started in September when she experienced mild headaches after adjusting her anxiety meds.
Her psychiatrist recommended an MRI. While waiting for the results, Amanda jokingly asked if they found a tumor. The radiographer’s serious response shattered her world.
“I joked, ‘Did you find a brain tumor?’ And the radiographer said, ‘Yes.’” Amanda felt the room spin before she blacked out.
The next day, she visited the doctor with her parents. The initial news wasn’t all bad—her doctor mentioned that most brain tumors are benign. But when further scans showed active tumor growth, Amanda’s reality became more grim. A biopsy confirmed the cancer, and her oncologist gave her the devastating news.
Amanda was told she had maybe 15 months to live. Glioblastoma typically affects older adults, but despite her youth, her large tumor indicated it had been there a while.
Her first treatment phase ended just before Christmas, leaving her exhausted. Now, with only weeks before more chemotherapy, Amanda wants to tick off her bucket list.
“I want to stay at a beach hotel, just to relax and forget,” she said. Other dreams include visiting Australia Zoo and enjoying an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Amanda started a GoFundMe to cover her bucket list and medical expenses, which her health insurance doesn’t fully cover. She encourages others to focus on what matters in life.
“None of my old colleagues are here during chemo—only my family and friends,” she said. “I wish I had spent more time with them and enjoyed life more.”
