Meet Liana, a 22 year old illustrator who advocated for her life after a cancer diagnosis.
Meet Liana
ARTICLE
2 December 2024
4 min read
4 min read
Liana’s story – a case study
At just 22 years old, Liana never thought she’d be faced with a life-changing diagnosis. While finishing up her bachelor’s degree and beginning her career, Liana was suddenly struck with a debilitating pain running through her neck and shoulders. Having seen and been dismissed by multiple GPs due to her age and apparent good health, Liana knew she had to advocate for herself to receive a diagnosis and get the treatment she needed to begin her journey to recovery. With AIA Australia by her side, she found the right support to move forward.
Liana’s diagnosis
After the pain in her neck and shoulders progressed into 24/7 migraines and headaches, Liana finally received a referral to see an ENT surgeon to get to the bottom of it. Almost immediately, she was diagnosed with stage four nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Her manager forwarded on all the details of the Income Protection cover she was entitled to through her employment, and she immediately contacted AIA to begin her journey to recovery.
Beyond standard care
Speaking about her experience with the support that AIA provided, Liana said “I am so unbelievably grateful… it really took a weight off my shoulders while I was having to deal with my cancer diagnosis…”. Not only was she able to receive financial support in the form of a lump sum payment from her trauma benefit, but she was also given access to Cancer Coach, a program that empowers people undergoing cancer treatment with digital tools, personal coaching, and educational resources.
Speaking about Cancer Coach, Liana said, “You don’t expect that you are even going to get provided with anything when you find out a diagnosis like this, let alone a whole designated Cancer Coach… That was pretty cool.” Liana was also connected to an exercise physiologist to help her regain strength throughout her chemotherapy treatment.
Getting back to life
Once Liana was ready to begin her return-to-work program, she was supported by a dedicated rehabilitation consultant who guided her back to work and helped her gradually resume her normal hours and duties.
Reflecting on her recovery journey so far, Liana said, “I’m just so unbelievably grateful to be here… I’m so grateful to be able to take every day one day at a time… I’m grateful to be able to work… to be able to sit down and draw… and spend time with my family…”
From recovery to health advocacy
Liana’s journey has made her passionate about health advocacy and speaking out about cancer. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of seeking the right support. With courage, advocacy, and the right resources, she has not only overcome immense challenges but is now helping others find hope and strength in their own battles.
Learn more
Watch the video to learn more about Liana’s story or discover AIA’s Life Insurance cover options via our website.
Liana's story
Staff Writer
Staff writers come from a range of backgrounds including health, wellbeing, music, tech, culture and the arts. They spend their time researching the latest data and trends in the health market to deliver up-to-date information, helping everyday Australians live healthier lives. This is general information only and is not intended as medical, health, nutritional or other advice. You should obtain professional advice from a medical or health practitioner in relation to your own personal circumstances.
Disclaimer:
Copyright © 2024 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as of the date of publication and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.
Copyright © 2024 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as of the date of publication and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.
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