Losing an eye to cancer has changed her life, but Tauranga woman Elle Lagerberg isn't backing down yet.

In 2013, the 32-year-old was diagnosed with intraocular melanoma cancer and had to lose an eye to prevent the spread.

The operation changed her life, leaving her in severe pain around the cavity. Due to this, work is impossible.

'I have to take eight tramadol a day to make the pain tolerable, but I can't drive while medicated,” says Elle.

However, she doesn't let cancer rule her life.

Elle still has many hobbies and passions that she keeps close to her heart.

For 11 years now, Elle has enjoyed participating in live action role play.

This can take similar forms to murder mystery games, but also large, immersive fantasy events. She has also been a cosplayer for 14 years, enjoying creating costumes based on fictional characters and sometimes entering them in competitions.

'There are a lot of restrictions – I can't get involved with the combat and I have to avoid dim light – but I still enjoy the other aspects.”

What keeps her going the most, however, is her ducks and cat.

'What they don't tell you about cancer is the depression. Knowing that my ducks need me to feed them keeps me getting out of bed.”

And her advice to others struggling with cancer?

'Take each day as it comes. Eventually you will get to the other side and be stronger for it.”