Myra Tatakura is a warrior, a true inspiration and a shining example of courage, resilience and compassion. As a breast cancer survivor, she has faced immense challenges with steadfast strength, battling the disease with determination and never losing sight of her faith in the Lord.

Her story is one of triumph over adversity, and it is no wonder that she has been celebrated as the Woman of the Month for July, a testament to her extraordinary spirit.

Her journey has been marked by both personal struggles and a deep commitment to helping others, reaching out to women grappling with coming to terms with breast cancer.

Tatakura was nominated for the award by the Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation (CIBCF) in recognition of her continuous advocacy work.

Close to 200 families, friends and work colleagues gathered at The Islander Resort last month to acknowledge and celebrate Tatakura’s incredible journey.

She shares her journey in the hope that she can reach all women of the Cook Islands.

“If my story can reach one woman, that’s one woman saved.”

Tatakura’s breast cancer was detected at stage two. In January 2011, a breast biopsy was performed. In April, the results confirmed she had stage two breast cancer and Tatakura was referred to Aotearoa New Zealand for further treatment.

Leaving her two young daughters behind, she began treatment in Aotearoa, eventually undergoing a mastectomy.

She discovered then she was pregnant and was given the option to terminate her pregnancy or to continue her treatment.

“I believe I was blessed with this pregnancy, blessed in a life for a life. God had given me this blessing and I believe she was brought into my life to give me strength to fight this cancer and to strengthen my faith. She was brought into my life to help me carry on,” said Tatakura.

In October 2011, she returned home to Rarotonga. Three months later on January 8, 2012, her youngest daughter (child number four) Tarome Tuiarongo Nooroa was born.

“She is my biggest blessing in life, I was blessed with a child to help me carry on to fight,” she said.

After six weeks, Tatakura flew to Aotearoa for her check-up. She was relieved to be told that she no longer needed chemotherapy or radiation.

Returning home to recover, she took on the role of the CIBCF secretary and persists in speaking out about her experiences and encouraging women to participate in the mammogram programme, to keep vigilant and battle cancer.

Tatakura’s dear friend and soul sister, Sisi Upu said: “You have climbed so many mountains… you are my superhero.”

Dawn Baudinet, the immediate past president of the CIBF, said Tatakura’s “trademark beautiful and infectious smile and incredible demeanour captured people’s hearts when she was at Trader Jacks”.

“She has nurtured many women over the years through their anxiety, and comforting women and she has not been afraid to share her story of being a breast cancer survivor.

“You are a valued member of the Breast Foundation and you have a very powerful voice for all women of the Cook Islands.”

Baudinet thanked the Au Vaine Woman of the Month committee group for recognising “a woman of substance”.

“We are very pleased to have the opportunity to nominate and congratulate you.”

In closing the formalities of the evening, Tatakura urged and encouraged all women to put their health first.

“I’m overwhelmed with gratitude and to be surrounded by amazing inspiring women. I’m honoured and humbled by every little gift of love that has helped shape me on my path to where I am today,” said Tatakura.

“I give thanks and praise to God for his healing hands, and my mother for her unwavering strength and support.”

Tatakura also commended the Au Vaine committee and the sponsors, not forgetting her “happy work family” at Vonnia’s, its owners Yvonne and Nia Heather and the staff who attended the event.

The Woman of the Month (WOM) initiative was established in January 2007.