But Hannah didn’t qualify for the clinical trials in Melbourne and London, so she and Simon decided to seek the treatment in Singapore.

Hannah and Simon married in 2023, shortly before her cancer came back. Source: Supplied

The Sydney couple had less than 24 hours to figure out how they were going to pay for the costs of the trial and accommodation, which they estimated to be around $400,000.

“Though it’s hard not to feel a bit guilty. And I think it’s only natural to wonder if you’re worthy of all that.”

Seeking options abroad

“With Ewing sarcoma, most people do not live past five years … but I just was hell-bent on trying to give him time,” Dianne said.

Dianne took her son Jordan to China for experimental cancer treatment. Source: Supplied

After hearing about a friend’s positive experience, Dianne took Jordan to China in 2016, where he continued conventional treatment for cancer but with the addition of natural therapy.

“I didn’t want Jordan to think for one more minute, ‘What am I going to do?’ and have it hanging over his head.”

Medical tourism’s rising popularity

“We have a world-class health system in Australia, but it can’t do everything for everyone at all times,” Dr Michael Bonning told Insight.

The cost and personal toll of travel were two other factors people considering medical tourism should take into account, he added.

‘A single purpose’

“And ultimately to get her better and bring her back.”

Hannah received treatment at a Singapore hospital. Source: Supplied

Upon completion of the trial, Hannah was discharged with no detectable cancer cells.

“I’m in remission and I have been for the last 15 months, but I say that with caution because we still have tests every eight weeks … to check and see if the cancer is coming back.”

The impact of overseas treatment

After emergency surgery and changes to his treatment while in operation recovery, Jordan’s cancer continued to metastasise.

Although overseas treatment didn’t wholly work for Jordan, Dianne doesn’t regret her attempt to give her son a longer life. Source: Supplied

The family returned home to Melbourne in October 2016 where Jordan died three months later at the age of 22.

“You’re living in a place where you don’t speak the language, you’re totally out of your comfort zone. You can’t have all your support there.”