Te Ara Wāhine: A Wāhine Māori path for Symptomatic Breast Cancer in the Waikato

Te Ara Wāhine: A Wāhine Māori path for Symptomatic Breast Cancer in the Waikato

Chae Simpson (Rongomaiwahine)

University of Waikato

Māori Cancer Researcher Awards - PhD Scholarship

The journey through breast cancer treatment can be overwhelming, involving multiple appointments, long waits, and complex processes. While some support services exist, few are designed to address the unique cultural, social, and economic needs of wāhine Māori.

Research shows that blending traditional Māori healing practices, like rongoā, with modern medical treatments can lead to better health outcomes. This project aims to improve access to care and create a more supportive, culturally grounded experience for wāhine Māori with symptomatic breast cancer in the Waikato.

As a wāhine Māori with extensive experience in the health sector, Chae is passionate about creating solutions that uphold mana motuhake and rangatiratanga.

“This scholarship has given me the opportunity to focus on my PhD, enabling me to contribute to meaningful, culturally grounded change for wāhine Māori.”