Young mum’s cancer fight highlights need for $22.5m Northland Cancer Lodge

This was the only option for Abi Johnston, who was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2023, when she was just 27.

Johnston was 6 months pregnant, with the locally advanced cancer diagnosis shattering what should have been one of the happiest times for her and husband Broc.

She began chemotherapy within days, welcomed their daughter Lilah mid‑treatment, and later underwent more chemotherapy, radiation treatment and a mastectomy.

Johnston said being far from home made an already overwhelming experience even harder.

Today, Johnston is well. Her scans are clear, Lailah is thriving and she feels grateful for how far her family has come.

Today, Whangārei’s Abi Johnston and her daughter Lailah are thriving but Johnston knows having her cancer treatment in Northland would have made life easier.

Hearing about the new radiation oncology service and Northland Cancer Lodge brings her real hope for others.

“I’m really excited they’re bringing radiation treatment to Northland and so happy the Cancer Society is building accommodation here. So many people won’t have to travel so far for treatment.”

Johnston said both would have made a big difference for her own whānau.

“If treatment and accommodation had been available here, every part of life would have been that little bit easier.”

The Cancer Society has released the first sketches of the Northland Cancer Lodge and started a website taking direct donations for the $22.5m project.

Abi Johnston, who had her daughter Lailah in the middle of her cancer treatment, says she’s excited for the Cancer Society’s Northland Cancer Lodge.

Building work is expected to start in the middle of the year, after earthworks and retaining walls are done.

Johnston is urging others to support the lodge.

“Every donation, no matter how big or small, creates a massive impact for people in our community going through cancer.”

Cancer Society Northland regional manager Charli Timms said community support will help build more than just a lodge, helping strengthen cancer care in Northland for years to come.

“This lodge is a place of compassion, dignity, and connection. It will ease stress for patients and their whānau, keeping families together during one of life’s hardest journeys.”

The Northland Cancer Lodge will not only have 20 modern bedroom suites, it will include supportive communal spaces and a welcoming environment inspired by Auckland’s Domain Lodge.

People can donate directly or choose to fundraise in their own way, she said.

This year’s Northland Relay For Life at Trigg Stadium, on March 21, offers a way for the community to get involved, with funds raised going to the lodge.

Go to northlandlodge.org.nz to learn more or donate directly.

Denise Piper is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on health and business. She has more than 20 years in journalism and is passionate about covering stories that make a difference.