Cymbeline’s Story
Held by Her Community in times of Hardship
Cymbeline Buhler King was living in New York when the twin towers fell on 9/11. Cymbeline survived this awful experience but now faces a more personal hardship.
In 2017, Cymbeline noticed a lump in her breast. Despite being told initially by her GP not to worry, it grew and was visibly larger at her next GP visit. The cancer was confirmed. She underwent surgery at Westmead Hospital, six months of chemotherapy, then daily radiation at Nepean hospital — a demanding schedule, made even harder by the commute from the Blue Mountains.
“The radiation was like a corrosive effect,” Cymbeline recalled. “I had trouble breathing and severe burns. The side effects were downplayed, but they took a huge toll”.
Years later, Cymbeline’s cancer returned. This time, it had metastasised into her bones. She’s now on lifelong cancer treatment including hormone therapy and cell cycle blocking therapy, each of which brings its own challenges: fatigue, pain, and heightened menopause symptoms.
Cymbeline’s life now revolves around ongoing treatment and managing energy. She’s had to reduce work, and the financial strain has been immense. But through it all, her community has rallied. Friends and family created rosters to drive her to appointments, cooked meals, and surrounded her with love. And when bills began to pile up, Can Assist stepped in.
“They paid my electricity and gas bills,” she said. “It felt like a headache in the background that just got lifted. I really felt like there was a community — I felt very held by the community.”
“To anyone who has donated — thank you so much. It just makes such a huge difference to receive that financial support during cancer treatment.”
Cymbeline still managed to finish her PhD while navigating treatment. Alongside her studies and advocacy, her dogs have been her emotional support throughout it all.
Reflecting on her journey, Cymbeline shares this advice:
“Some GPs are more casual about cancer than they should be. If something feels odd— push for tests. It’s probably nothing, but it might not be. Always check it. Maybe we could’ve caught mine before it travelled.”
Her resilience, intellect, and community have seen her through, but she never forgets the role Can Assist played. “I couldn’t have asked for more help. They are kind, reassuring, and really help people”.
“It means the world.”
