"It was mid-May when I was diagnosed and six weeks later, it was a day before chemo when they first told me about fertility and that I was not going to be able to have kids... I was quite annoyed that it was six weeks later... they knew I was young"
Family planning – Offers health information, clinical services, education, training and research and works with people of any gender, age, ethnicity or sexual orientation. www.familyplanning.org.nz
Please also consider DHB based gynaecology services that provide a more specialist service.
Web Resources
Livestrong Fertility Website
A website link that directs you to educational information and access to resources that support cancer patients and survivors whose fertility may be at risk due to a cancer diagnosis and/or its treatment.
The Clinical Leader is responsible for providing clinical leadership and national oversight of the network .
Heidi is a passionate and experienced health professional with a strong clinical, education and leadership background. Her enthusiasm for, and commitment to youth health has focused on improving the outcomes of youth with cancer and chronic health conditions. Previously, Heidi held the position of AYA Cancer Nurse Specialist for Auckland District Health Board. Alongside her AYA clinical leadership role she holds a youth health academic position at the University of Auckland.
Cristal Salatas
Cristal Salatas is the Research & Data Lead for the AYA Cancer Network. She is also a PhD candidate at the University of Auckland, specialising in Perinatal Sciences. Her research utilises Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyse the spatial, nutritional, environmental, and socioeconomic determinants of preterm birth risk across New Zealand. Cristal’s research bridges spatial epidemiology, GeoAI-driven risk modelling, and public health policy, ensuring that geospatial insights translate into actionable healthcare solutions.
Cristal has also conducted cancer research at her alma mater (University of Florida), where she developed a successful killing assay for glioblastoma multiforme. Now, she will build on that foundation by leading research and data efforts to support adolescents and young adults facing cancer across Aotearoa.