Mandy Wallace: An Advocate Abroad
by Claire Condrey and Cindy Thomas, CCF Staff
In the realm of cholangiocarcinoma advocacy, Mandy Wallace stands out as a beacon of inspiration and change. With more than a decade of personal experience navigating the challenges of cholangiocarcinoma, Mandy has not only become a dedicated advocate but also the founder of Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (CCF) New Zealand.
Mandy’s journey began with a life-altering internet search that led her to CCF. Describing this discovery as “life-saving,” she gained access to vital information and research, empowering her to advocate for the best possible care. Armed with newfound hope, Mandy channeled her own journey into a force for change within the international cholangiocarcinoma community.
One of Mandy’s historic milestones includes becoming the first international CholangioConnect mentor in 2018. Her leadership transcended borders, as she never shied away from offering guidance and support to mentees in Malaysia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Canada, and beyond, knowing that each countries’ healthcare systems brought unique and challenging obstacles. Mandy’s efforts extended further, inspiring local volunteers and fortifying CCF’s mission globally, particularly in New Zealand.
Mandy finds it i fulfilling to walk alongside her mentees, and the relationships she has built have increased her sense of community. “As soon as you say ‘cholangiocarcinoma,’ we’ve got something in common, and it feels like we could have known each other forever. It’s a strange bond, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.” Mandy further shared that serving as a mentor has helped her to understand her journey and has given her peace.
Mandy offers invaluable support to alleviate the often-pervasive sense of isolation that accompanies a rare cancer diagnosis. In addition to priceless emotional support; she educates mentees about treatments that may be vital and life-changing. Leveraging the resources of CCF, Mandy equips her mentees with research and information, empowering them to advocate for themselves effectively in their unique healthcare journeys. Through her mentorship, Mandy fosters a community where individuals can navigate their challenges with confidence, support, and hope.
Beyond individual efforts, Mandy played a pivotal role in rallying CCF New Zealand’s support for Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month and World Cholangiocarcinoma Day. Under her guidance, the organization expanded its campaign to include the illumination of major towers across New Zealand. The Hawera Water Tower and the Skyview Tower in Auckland now serve as symbols of hope, shedding light on the often-overlooked challenges faced by cholangiocarcinoma patients and their families.
Mandy’s approach to advocacy and her ability to mobilize the CCF New Zealand team have not only raised awareness on a national scale but have also garnered significant attention and support from the broader community. These endeavors exemplify the power of collective action and the profound impact that Mandy and CCF New Zealand are making to shine a spotlight on cholangiocarcinoma, touching the hearts of many and uniting communities globally in support of this critical work.
As a board member for CCF Australia and the founder of CCF New Zealand, Mandy’s impact reverberates globally. She spearheaded the creation of a dedicated CCF New Zealand website, established and administrates the vibrant “CCA New Zealand” Facebook group, and organized the impactful “CCA Awareness Patient Get Together,” providing crucial support for patients and caregivers not just in New Zealand but around the world.
Mandy’s dedication, leadership, and contributions have had a lasting impact on the international cholangiocarcinoma community.