Former Neighbours star Kate Keltie has been diagnosed with stage four breast cancer.
The actress played Michelle Scully, the sister of Holly Valance's Flick, between 1999 and 2003, with a brief re-appearance in 2004, before moving into another career.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by her family, with a message that reads: "Her cancer is extremely aggressive and it has spread to other parts of her body, including her lymph nodes, blood and hip bones (known as metastatic cancer).
"This week the fight of her life begins as she starts chemotherapy.
Related: Neighbours farewell tour provides new update for fans after show return news
"Given the severity of the chemotherapy that Kate requires, her Oncologist advised that working and maintaining her job during this time is not an option.
"She will lose her gorgeous hair and cannot carry children in the future. This is devastating news for anyone, let alone at the age of 36, with no family history of breast cancer.
"Kate will then require chemo infusions every three weeks for the rest of her life, and potentially radiotherapy and surgery too."
Related: Neighbours to air hundreds of new episodes after shock return deal
The fundraiser had an initial goal of AU$25,000, in order to cover rent, food and bills, among other things. At the time of writing, the page has raised over $31,000.
Keltie herself responded to the fundraiser, writing: "Hi everyone. I am so sorry I haven't had a chance to thank you all personally yet- stay with me, I'll get there!
"I just wanted to say thank you, thank you, thank you for all of your support, and messages and phone calls. It's so amazing to know I have so many incredible people in my corner.
"I've just got over COVID and I start my first round of chemotherapy tomorrow, and you really have no idea how my head space has changed going into it because of each and every one of you. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."
If you would like more information or support about living with cancer or treatment, please click here for guidance from Breast Cancer Now, or click here to learn more from Stand Up to Cancer.
