Dying cancer patient will spend her final moments with the highest bidder, launches auction

31-year-old Emily Lahey, who has NUT carcinoma, is auctioning her time to strangers in Sydney as part of a living artwork titled Time to Live.

Also Read: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s ‘disrespect’ for Kate Middleton amid cancer diagnosis ‘pushed the button’ for William

Through this project, Lahey aims to encourage participants to reflect on what truly matters in their lives and raise awareness about the need for cancer research.

The event features a large projection counting down from three minutes, highlighting the brief nature of their time together. The aim is to shed light on the emotional and psychological challenges of living with a terminal illness or supporting someone who does, while also emphasizing the importance of ongoing cancer research.

Also Read: Cancer treatment: New research finds ‘less’ is more effective for patients, produce fewer side-effects

While doctors can't predict how much time Lahey has left, she approaches each day with gratitude.

"Everything comes and goes in waves. It's like being on a constant rollercoaster," she said, adding, "There were times I struggled to look beyond the next day or week. As time goes on, I'm gaining a bit more confidence to look towards the end of the year."

Also Read: Male cancer rates to increase 84%; deaths to double in next 25 years: New study

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), cancer is Australia's leading cause of death. Despite this, Lahey feels it's often something people assume won't impact them or their loved ones. "Time is incredibly valuable," she remarked.

Cancer is Australia's leading cause of death, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Despite this, Lahey feels that many people believe it won't affect them or their loved ones.

Also Read: Cancer treatment: Lifestyle changes prevent deaths, show ’dramatic’ improvement; says US study

In the early 1990s, Australia's cancer survival rate was just over 50 percent, but by the late 2010s, nearly 70 percent of Australians survived at least five years after diagnosis, according to AIHW data.

What is NUT carcinoma?

NUT carcinoma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer characterized by a genetic mutation in the NUT (Nuclear Protein in Testis) gene.

This cancer primarily affects the midline structures of the body, including the head, neck, and chest, and can also occur in other areas. It is known for its rapid progression and poor prognosis.