BATTLING through cervical cancer at the age of 23 is something no young woman ever imagines they will have to face.
But for Mount Gambier resident Kirby Baker-Little that was the harsh reality in 2016.
Going through seven operations, including a radical hysterectomy and five weeks of intense radiotherapy, the young mother admitted she may not be here today if she had not listened to her body.
“I had been having regular pap-smears every two years as you are meant to, but I actually asked to have one a year earlier because I knew something was wrong and that’s when they picked up the cancer,” she said.
“I never expected to get it and that is why I want to share my story so other young women know it can happen to anyone at any age.”
Now in remission, Ms Baker-Little’s mission is to become a role model for indigenous women throughout the community through her participation in the Indigenous Connections – Aboriginal Model Search.
Selected to represent the Blue Lake city in Sydney later this week, the determined young woman will strut her stuff on the runway and share her message to a crowd of hundreds.
If chosen on Saturday night at the national final, Ms Baker-Little will then tour around Australia, campaigning on women’s health and in particular cervical cancer.
“I just want to be a role model and encourage young women to look after themselves,” she said.
“Being young myself, I hope other girls will listen to me and stay up to date with their health checks.
“You should not be scared to go and talk to your doctor if you think something is not right.”
With previous modelling and public speaking experience, the determined mother said she was still feeling nervous about the competition.
“It is very nerve-wracking, but thankfully I have done talks at Pangula Mannamurna about cervical cancer and women’s health before so I know what my main message is,” she said.
“My husband and brother will be there to support me, which is fantastic, but it will be a very big few days.”
However, having only received the good news a couple of weeks ago, Ms Baker-Little has had very little time to organise outfits and save money to help cover costs.
“I have had some great support already from local businesses and members of the community with a Go Fund Me page set up, but it is a costly trip as we will drive all the way there and back,” she said.
“Any donations via the Go Fund Me page would be greatly appreciated.”
Ms Baker-Little will take part in the competition on Friday and Saturday in Sydney with a selection of modelling classes, photography shoots and acting classes taking place before the final on Saturday night.
Visit www.gofundme.com/indigenous-model-finalist to make a donation.
