Melissa’s Journey – A Breast Cancer Survivor’s Story of Strength and Support
October 2024
When Melissa was looking for a new energy provider, she came across Red Energy’s Red BCNA Saver plan, which contributes up to $10 per month to the Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).*
“As someone who’s been through breast cancer, it was a no-brainer for me,” she says. This story is part of our customer spotlight series.
A cancer diagnosis at 33 brought Melissa’s family closer together
For Melissa, life revolves around her family, her work as a store manager, and spending weekends by the beach. But five years ago, everything changed when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 33. “It was such a shock,” Melissa recalls. “I didn't expect it at all, but I was lucky to catch it early”.
At the time of her diagnosis, Melissa had only just started dating her current partner, Luke. “We had met just two months before I found out,” she shares. “It was a whirlwind — chemo started in July, and our relationship was still so new. I didn’t know how it would go, but he was amazing through it all”. Luke stood by her side through months of chemotherapy and surgery, providing support and a steady presence during a time of great uncertainty.
Melissa’s approach to her diagnosis was one of quiet resilience. “I tried to keep things as normal as possible,” she says. “I’d go in for treatment, then head back to work the next day. For me, it felt better to keep going rather than sit at home and dwell on things”.
Now a breast cancer survivor, Melissa reflects on that challenging time with gratitude, especially for the early detection and the unwavering support from Luke and her family. “I know I was one of the lucky ones,” she says. “Not everyone has the support system I did, and not everyone gets to catch it early”.
Doing good through her energy provider
When it came time to look for a new energy provider last year, Melissa discovered Red Energy’s Red BCNA Saver plan. By signing up to the Red BCNA Saver plan, Red Energy will contribute up to $10 every month to BCNA. That’s $5 for electricity and $5 for gas accounts for every month that you remain on the Red BCNA Saver plan up to the value of $120 each year.* "After everything I’d been through, it was a no-brainer to sign up. It felt like a way to give back and help others who are going through what I did”.
Melissa has been with Red Energy since January and appreciates the simplicity and reliability of their service. But more importantly, she values their commitment to BCNA. “It feels good knowing that my energy bill is helping to raise funds for BCNA. They do incredible work, from providing resources to advocating for better access to treatments”.
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Giving back to BCNA, together
Since the launch of the Red BCNA Saver plan in 2020, Red Energy has contributed over $1.5 million, with a goal to raise $1 million in a single year. For Melissa, being part of this is incredibly meaningful. "It’s a reminder that even in the small choices — like picking an energy provider — you can make a difference”.
Looking back on her journey, Melissa has gained a new perspective on life. “You realise how important it is to appreciate the little things. I have more time now, and I’m so grateful for that”. With Luke by her side, her two daughters, and a strong network of support, Melissa continues her journey with a renewed sense of hope and strength.
Through Red Energy’s BCNA plan, Melissa not only powers her home but also helps raise funds to support the 56 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer every day — those who are finding their own strength and support on their journeys.
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* Offer available to residential customers signing up to the Red BCNA Saver plan. Red Energy will contribute $5 per fuel to Breast Cancer Network Australia (ABN 16 087 937 531) for each calendar month you are on the Red BCNA Saver electricity and/or gas plan, starting from and including the date Red Energy becomes responsible for your electricity and/or gas supply. Eligibility criteria and conditions apply. Basic Plan Information Documents and Fact Sheets available at redenergy.com.au/bpid.
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About Red Energy
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