Still on a high after a trip of a lifetime to Uluru, Ms Williams’ heart was broken after an endoscopy revealed a tumour in her stomach.

The family’s worst thoughts were confirmed – her cancer was back – spread across multiple organs and more aggressive than ever before.

Their world was turned upside down.

“She was given a terminal diagnosis,” Lisa Saffrey said.

“I don’t think people realise how beautiful life is until you could lose it.

“We were devastated.”

But a potentially life-saving surgery has opened new hope for the family. It is described as “extremely invasive” and aims to remove as much of the cancer as possible.

Ms Williams underwent that surgery earlier this week, boosting her chances of survival to 50 per cent.

All eyes are now on her extensive recovery.

“We are doing the best we can under very tricky circumstances,” Ms Saffrey said.

“I guess we are walking on a tightrope, but we’re very hopeful and keen to get back home to Wagga and get back to life.

“We have a beautiful life and we’re not prepared to lose that.”

Compounding the family’s resolve to return home is their strong support network.

Ms Williams keeps her friends updated and recounts her recovery through her Facebook page.

The page, “Sare’s journey”, has been flooded with messages from well-wishers and a separate crowd-funding page has garnered more than $5000 in donations.

The support is helping smooth the bumpy road of recovery – and it was no more evident than on Thursday when Ms Williams was rushed to intensive care.

“I was in ICU reading out the messages,” Ms Saffrey said.

“She is encouraged and heartened by every message … she reads every single one.

“I really do think all the prayers and love have contributed to every stride she’s made.”

This week Ms Williams wrote: “I wish I had the strength to reply but am putting it in this moment to stay awake enough to smile and realise just how blessed and lucky I really am. Two steps forward, one step back!”