Fumie and her family arrived in Australia on May 2019, hoping for a better environment for her children to learn and grow.
Her eldest daughter, Michi (12 years old) did not want to go to school in Japan, and Fumie herself felt that her children did not quite match the education system of Japan either.
"We wanted to respect our daughter's decision, and agreed that change was necessary"
Having previously stayed in Australia as a working holiday maker, Fumie knew of the "great environment, people and the education system of Australia".
The family welcomed their third child, Tensei, and was living happily in the town of Uki, an hour inland from Byron Bay, NSW. A music enthusiast, Fumie was often seeing voluntarily teaching musical instruments to children in the community. 
From Right: Kouyou (10years old), Michi (12),Tensei (1) Source: Fumie Araki
However in 2021, shortly after Tensei was weaned, Fumie noticed a lump under her armpit. "It wasn't there when I was breast feeding"
Fumie was 42 years old when she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer.
"I was anxious, scared and depressed. My family was extremely sad"
However, after receiving many encouragement, support and love, Fumie decided to "Accept it, and face it"
The family had always lived a healthy life, been conscious about what they were eating. So the diagnosis came as a "shock", says her husband, Hiroyuki.
Fumie has learnt the importance of staying positive through her experience. Source: Fumie Araki
"What were we doing wrong?"
But soon, Hiroyuki decided to shift his thinking, accept Fumie's diagnosis as an "opportunity to change our lifestyle and ways of thinking from various angles"
It is important stay positive, as the mind and body is connected
Fumie says she is even feeling "thankful" for her diagnosis and these positive changes.
However, the family is not a permanent resident. Hiroyuki who is a hairdresser, is currently on student visa, and is limited to 20hours of work per week, and the family is not eligible for any government support.
"But we love Australia, and this is the best place for me (to be treated)" says Fumie.
Hiroyuki is on student visa, so trying to support his family with 20hours a week has been a challenge Source: Fumie Araki
"I cannot imagine leaving this place now"
A GoFundMe page has been set up by her friend, and Fumie is overwhelmed with the amount of support she has received till now.
"I would like to say a Huge Big Thanks to the support from communities, family, old friends from Japan, new friends, friends who take care of my little boy, friends who cook warm home made dishes for me, and many kind strangers!! Thanks to that, I can continue to receive the best treatment" says Fumie on the page.
"From now another 4 months of chemo, followed by detailed examination, surgery, and radiation therapy are scheduled. But no fear anymore. Because I have a lot of LOVE from you" she continued.
Fumie decided to talk to SBS Japanese, as a way of thank you to those who have supported her journey so far.
By sharing her experience, she hopes to connect with those who are going through cancer, other illness, or any other problem, and let them know that "you are not alone".
"It might be sad and depressing now, but this is just a passage to something greater in the future"
In Australia, women over 40 can have a free mammogram every 2 years, while those between the ages of 50 and 74 will actively receive invitation to attend breast screening every 2 years. This BreastScreen Australia Program is a joint initiative by the Australian and state/territory governments, aiming to reduce illness and death from breast cancer by detecting the disease early.
There are over 750 location providing breast screening services across Australia. Most services are open with additional COVID safety measures. For bookings, call 13 20 50.
Listen to SBS Japanese Radio on Tue, Thu and Sat from 10pm
