I’m on a mission to defeat cancer.

Thank you for taking the time to read my message. I’m reaching out to ask for your support as I prepare to take on my 7^th MACA 200 Ride to raise funds for the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research.

My journey

2024

In May 2024 (Mother’s Day), I suffered an unexpected seizure while training for the MACA 200km Ride.

What followed changed my life. Scans revealed Stage 4 metastatic melanoma with two brain tumours one measuring 33mm as well as tumours in my lung, abdomen, and kidney.

I underwent urgent brain surgery and began intensive immunotherapy and radiation.

Within a month, a second brain tumour grew tenfold before treatment successfully reduced it to undetectable levels.

Despite heavy treatment, I completed the 2024 MACA 200km ride and raised nearly $19,000.

2025

The discovery of another brain tumour that required surgery, due to the location of this tumour it affected the right side of my arm and hand which required months of rehabilitation that challenged my lifestyle and my preparation for the ride, however I was determined to complete the ride again, this time raising over $43,000 for the Perkins Institute.

2026

Recent scans had shown show excellent progress in my body and positive outlook.

However, on the 22nd January 2026 I had my 3rd craniotomy surgery to remove another lesion from my brain.

Since the surgery and ongoing treatment my family and I have maintained focus through staying healthy and fit by achieving lifelong goals of running a marathon on the Great Wall of China and preparing for the upcoming Sydney Marathon and for my 7^th cancer 200 ride.

Positive news, scans in August 2026 show no evidence of disease detected in my body or brain! This news was extremely exciting for me and my family and friends showed me just how critical medical research truly is.

I can attest that the treatment developed from research like that at the Perkins is making a difference and the helping me survive to spend more quality time with my family.

I can’t stress enough for everyone to be vigilant with skin and mole checks and be sun smart and get regular checkups for those in the relevant age groups.

Hug your loved ones as much as you can as you never know how quickly your life can change.

Together, we can beat cancer!

Mat