Eighteen months ago, Rebecca knew little about brain cancer— in fact, she had never been impacted by cancer at all.
That all changed in November 2023, when her beloved father, Ted, was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM), an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer.
As Rebecca navigated the heartbreaking reality of her dad’s diagnosis, she was dealt another devastating blow—her close friend, Erin, was also diagnosed with GBM just months later.
Here, Rebecca shares her deeply personal journey and the reasons why she had double the motivation to take part in our 5km a Day in March Facebook Challenge—honouring two incredible lives while raising awareness and vital funds for brain cancer research.
“Dad was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer on 2 November 2023. Dad was a great man. He was my mate, and the most incredible grandfather to his five grandchildren. My twin daughters adored him and jumped at any chance to spend time with ‘Poppy’.
Dad’s tumour was operable, and, after the massive eight-or-so hour resection surgery, he started the standard treatment regime of radiation, followed by monthly chemotherapy.
While this was going on, I was learning everything I could about GBM and researching clinical trials. We’d been told that standard treatment would give us time with dad—12 to 18 months—but his cancer couldn’t be cured.
Dad fought so hard and was so incredibly positive throughout his treatment. He did as much as he could with his family, savouring every moment with those he loved the most.
As dad became too unwell to be cared for at home by his wife of 57 years (and my mum), Rayleen, he was admitted to palliative care.
The day Dad turned 79 in November 2024, in the palliative care ward (we celebrated with balloons, cake and gifts); I received the most shocking phone call from a close friend’s husband.
He was calling to tell me that his incredible wife and my gorgeous friend, Erin, had been diagnosed with GBM. Her tumour was inoperable, but being young, fit and healthy, we thought she’d get through the standard radiation and chemotherapy, while we raised funds to get her overseas for alternative or new treatment.
While Erin noticed changes in her cognition, she continued to be the amazing, fun, optimistic and positive human she’d always been. Enjoying life’s every moment.
My dad lost his battle with brain cancer on 13 December 2024. I was with him when he took his last breath and I’m forever grateful to have shared that moment with someone who was such a huge and important part of my life.
Twelve days later, on Christmas Day 2024, my beautiful friend, Erin, passed away. To this day, we are all shocked that she was taken so soon—just 6 weeks after her diagnosis. We all hoped and believed we had more time with her—so much more time.
Every person who knew and loved Erin has been left completely devastated. Erin was only 41, and the most amazing mum to 10-year-old twins, Archer and Indigo. She should have had the opportunity to see her twins grow up, achieve more life goals with her husband, Andy, and continue to thrive in her career in the disability sector. She was taken from this world far too young.
So, I’ve had double the reason to walk 5km a day in March for brain cancer. It was something small I could do to raise money for vital research, while remembering and honouring two great humans with every step.
My sisters, Sharon and Fiona, have joined me on the walk.
In loving memory of Erin, her husband Andy has started the ‘Be a good human’ movement to ensure Erin’s legacy lives on.
‘Do little things to show one person that you are a good human and hopefully they do the same,’ Andy said. ‘It can be as little as putting trolleys back for elderly at the shopping centre, to paying for the coffee of the person behind you in the drive through.’
It’s a wonderful initiative that I hope everyone can get behind.”
You can join the Be a good human movement on Instagram at @Good_company_only and Facebook at Good Company Only.
Cure Brain Cancer Foundation’s mission is, and always will be, to cure brain cancer. We are on an unwavering mission to help ensure that a diagnosis like GBM doesn’t have to mean a life lost too soon.
We stand in solidarity with Rebecca, and every single one of our donors, fundraisers and supporters who are making a difference in the fight against brain cancer.
