The Redlands community is coming together to support much-loved local photographer and single mother of two, Sarah Busfield, as she continues her battle with stage 3 breast cancer.
Sarah, the owner of Sarah B Photography, was diagnosed with aggressive triple negative breast cancer at just 40 years old.
Since her diagnosis, she has endured six months of intensive treatment including chemotherapy, immunotherapy and a double mastectomy.
“The moment I found it and was told it was cancer, it was so surreal. I never thought I’d be saying those words at 40,” Sarah said.
Because the cancer was triple negative and aggressive, the disease progressed quickly between early scans.
“From my first scan to my second scan it had already grown two centimetres and developed a satellite lesion,” she said.
“After that it was a rush of appointments every day — scans, tests and then chemotherapy started.”
Sarah described the emotional and physical toll of the treatment, which quickly became a full-time battle.
“Thursdays were blood tests, Fridays were sitting in the chair anxiety- and fear-ridden while having treatment,” she said.
“Saturday and Sunday I was full of steroids feeling okay, then I’d crash Monday and Tuesday.
“Wednesday was a good day, and then it would start again Thursday.”
During her first chemotherapy round Sarah experienced an anaphylactic reaction, forcing doctors to stop treatment early.
Later she began a second chemotherapy drug known as the “red devil”, which led to further complications and a five-day hospital stay.
“There was more fear starting the red devil and how it would affect my body. It rocked me and I ended up in hospital for five days,” she said.
Despite the challenges, Sarah says she has been grateful for the care she received.
“I had a wonderful team of surgeons who got me through surgery, and the oncology team at the Redlands Satellite Hospital has been brilliant. I’ve felt like family and never judged,” she said.
Sarah is currently recovering from her double mastectomy and focusing on physiotherapy and rest.
Her treatment will continue with immunotherapy through until September.
As a newborn photographer, Sarah has made the difficult decision to step away from photographing babies until she regains her strength.
“I’ve always prioritised the safety of newborns. With chemotherapy and not being able to lift, I won’t return to newborn sessions until my strength is fully back and I’m physically ready,” she said.
Instead, she hopes to slowly return to photography through outdoor maternity and family sessions as her recovery progresses.
Known throughout the Redlands community for her generosity, Sarah has long made it her mission to keep newborn photography affordable for families.
“Everyone should be able to afford pictures of their newborns,” she said.
In the past she has also used her work to support others, including running discounted photography sessions to raise funds for a young local girl Addison Kemp receiving Bone Marrow Transplant treatment at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.
Now, the same community she has supported is rallying behind her.
Local businesses have offered services, clients have delivered meals, and supporters have donated through an online fundraiser to help Sarah focus on her health and her daughters during recovery.
“It’s so hard to accept help,” Sarah said.
“I already feel guilty from the money that’s been raised.
“I even made $100 gift vouchers for Sarah B Photography this morning to gift to people just to say thank you.”
Despite the challenges ahead, Sarah says she is overwhelmed by the kindness surrounding her family.
“I am completely overwhelmed with the love and support I have received already from the community,” she said.
“Businesses have offered free services and clients have brought around food.
“It’s beautiful to see everyone pull together when someone is in need.”
Community members wishing to support Sarah and her family can donate through her GoFundMe page:
For more information about Sarah B Photography, visit:
