Minister for Emergency Management Kiri Allan is urging all Wahine to get a regular smear test after she revealed today she has been diagnosed with stage 3 cervical cancer.
Thousands of people have taken to social media to offer words of support and praise for Minister Allan for her courage sharing her story on Facebook which has gone viral. In her post Ms Allan shares ‘so now the fight of my life begins.’
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says she is devastated with the news and commended the Minister on her strength as she begins her course of care and treatment.
Ms Ardern announced today Minister Allan will undertake a leave of absence while she undergoes medical treatment for cervical cancer. The Ministers portfolios will be shared amongst her colleagues.
Kris Faafoi will be Acting Minister of Emergency Management. Ayesha Verrall Acting Minister of Conservation and Peeni Henare will be Acting Associate Minister for Arts Culture and Heritage.
Minister Allan has a message to all women. “Please, please, please encourage your sisters, your mothers, your daughters, your friends please #SmearYourMea it may save your life and we need you right here.”
Image credit: Kiri Allan Facebook