Rachel Robinson, a mother from Bromhof, has been diagnosed with metastatic melanoma, a severe and aggressive form of skin cancer, nearly two decades after doctors first removed a suspicious mole from her leg.
Robinson, now in her 40s, first had two moles removed when she was 27. At the time, she was told there was no cause for concern and was sent home. She says she was never informed that melanoma, once present, can silently spread through the lymphatic system.
“Seventeen years later, I was told I have cancer,” she said. “If someone had told me back then to go for checkups every six months, this wouldn’t have spiraled. But I was never warned.”
Her warning to others is clear: “If you notice anything on your skin, take it seriously. I was told everything was fine. But that mole changed my DNA. It took 17 years, but the cancer eventually came alive.”
Robinson’s cancer journey escalated when she developed a growing lump on her leg. By the time she had surgery, it had grown to the size of a tennis ball. Post-operation, she faced serious complications, including sepsis, and spent 17 days in high care on a life-support machine.
Today, she is undergoing targeted therapy, a treatment that costs around R58,000 a month. Although her medical aid currently covers part of the cost, it is not guaranteed long-term. Her husband, Robert, said the high cost of treatment is overwhelming.
“She takes a R2,000 tablet every day,” he explained. “That’s not sustainable. Government hospitals don’t offer this treatment. We’re lucky her medical aid is helping now, but we know it’s temporary. This is palliative care. I’ve got two young children. We need a real solution.”
Robinson is expected to continue targeted therapy until the end of the year, after which doctors may begin immunotherapy.
The family has been actively fundraising to cover ongoing medical costs. Recently, they hosted a karaoke night in Bromhof, attended by over 150 people. Robert said the event raised both funds and awareness, and the family plans to hold more fundraisers in the future.
Robinson also urges others to review their medical aid coverage and consider additional policies if financially possible. “If you can, make sure you’re covered. Get the best plan you can afford, because cancer treatment is expensive.”
As they face an uncertain future, the Robinson family continues to fight—with hope, strength, and community support behind them.
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