"Discovery Health Medical Scheme helped to save my life and I'll always be grateful" - Shirley Hurd, cancer survivor twice over
Shirley Hurd was first diagnosed with lung cancer in both lungs in 2022 and later adrenal cancer in 2024. She's made a full recovery from both cancers and credits the support she got from Discovery Health Medical Scheme for giving her access to top treatment and easing the financial strain of her treatment journey.
In October 2022, Shirley Hurd (67) was diagnosed lung cancer, with each lung at a different stage. "One morning I coughed and some blood came up," recalls Shirley. "I went to my doctor who sent me for X-rays and a CT scan. The results showed I had stage 3A cancer in my left lung and stage 1 cancer in my right lung. I was devastated."
"After nine months of treatment, a PET scan showed that I was cancer-free"
"Surgeons removed the tumour in my left lung. Then I had radiation therapy and chemotherapy. After nine months of treatment, a PET scan showed that I was cancer-free. I was elated to have been given another chance at life and so grateful to the dedicated medical professionals who treated me."
- A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is a special type of medical imaging that shows metabolic and biochemical activity in tissues and organs. It uses a small amount of safe radioactive material to highlight areas of high or unusual activity in the body. This helps doctors spot problems like cancer, brain disorders, or heart disease.
Another devastating setback for Shirley
In March 2024, Shirley received a crushing blow.
"I went for a routine CT scan and it showed I had stage 4 adrenal cancer," she says. "I was distraught and scared - it felt unreal to hear this news so soon after being told I was cancer-free." Before the diagnosis, Shirley had struggled with nausea and brain fog but never imagined it could be cancer - again.
Soon after this new diagnosis, Shirley began chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
"In April 2025, six months after I finished my immunotherapy treatments, another PET scan confirmed that I was cancer-free again. In October 2025, a follow-up CT scan confirmed that I was still clear of cancer. That was the best news I could have hoped for."
Supported every step of the way
"I wouldn't have managed without all the incredible support I received," says Shirley.
"My employers were amazing - kind, caring and understanding. They gave me time off for treatments and they contributed towards my medical aid premiums."
"I am also deeply grateful to Discovery Health Medical Scheme. The Scheme paid for my scans, radiation and chemotherapy treatments and paid 50% towards my six immunotherapy sessions."
- Discovery Health Medical Scheme helps fund innovative cancer treatments through the Oncology Innovation Benefit. If a member's treatment meets the Scheme's clinical criteria, we cover a defined list of cancers and precision medicines. Depending on the member's chosen plan option, we pay 50% to 75% of the Discovery Health Rate up to a set cover amount. Find out more.
"Before I was diagnosed, I didn't know about Discovery Health Medical Scheme's Oncology Benefit. I was pleasantly surprised by how much it covered. It was such a relief not to have to worry about the bills. Getting authorisation for my treatments went smoothly too."
- If you're a Discovery Health Medical Scheme member and have been diagnosed with cancer, you can register for the Oncology Care Programme to get cover for your treatment. Discovery Health Medical Scheme will pay for your treatment once your doctor's treatment plan has been approved. How much is covered depends on the specific plan you're on. This benefit includes radiation therapy, chemotherapy and other cancer medicines, scans, doctor visits, and supportive medicines that help manage side effects during treatment.
"I can't image what the outcome would've been without Discovery Health Medical Scheme - they gave me timely access to the best doctors and treatments. Discovery Health Medical Scheme helped save my life and I'll always be grateful."
"Know your medical aid benefits"
Shirley encourages other members to familiarise themselves with their Discovery Health Medical Scheme plan benefits.
She adds: "Having the right Discovery Health Medical Scheme plan can make a tough journey like cancer a little easier. And, knowing what you're covered for gives you peace of mind too."
Shirley's advice to those without medical aid cover? "Join Discovery Health Medical Scheme as soon as you can, no matter your age. You never know when you'll need the support that this sort of cover provides at life's most challenging times."
"And, to anyone going through cancer treatment - stay positive. It's not easy, but positive thoughts truly help you get through the toughest days."
I never take my health for granted anymore
Today, Shirley is focussed on living a healthier, more balanced life.
"I walk regularly, do lung exercises to keep my lungs strong, and eat a healthy diet with less sugar and more vegetables," she says. "I love gardening and make time to pray every day."
"I've learned to take each day as it comes - and I never take my health for granted anymore."
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