Friends of the McGrath Foundation

Johanna Griggs, Olympian and TV personality

I feel very honoured to be a Foundation Friend, as I, like so many others have had my life affected by cancer. I’ve lost people near and dear to me, and watched others battle with incredible tenacity in their fight against cancer.

The McGrath Foundation offers a very real, very tangible result to the generous outpouring and compassion showed by their many supporters, with funds raised going to McGrath Breast Care Nurses.

The staff involved with McGrath Foundation are there for the right reasons and are achieving lots of great things. For me, it’s great to be part of something, even in a small way, where everyone’s passion and commitment is genuine.

Karl Stefanovic, Today Show host

I feel humbled to have been asked to be a Foundation Friend. Until we find a cure for this disease, early detection is the key. Let’s keep focused on raising awareness and funds to support those who are fighting for their lives.

 

 

Sonia Kruger, TV personality

I met Jane McGrath at a fundraising lunch she was having in Sydney. She inspired me with her positive attitude and happiness in the face of the illness which eventually took her life.

She inspired a lot of women and anything I can do to help with the cause she worked so hard on is an honour.

 

 

Lee Furlong, Fox Sports reporter

Jane was a wonderful and strong woman who inspired so many people and I believe her legacy will live on forever.

The McGrath Foundation is such an important organisation as it reaches out to so many people in need and gives women hope and strength. I am thrilled to be a Foundation Friend and will continue to help spread Jane's message.

 

Bessie Bardot, author and TV personality

I've never seen a woman work so hard to make a difference; Jane was absolutely tireless in her quest. After several of my friends were touched by breast cancer, it's an honour to be a Foundation Friend.

 

 

 

Michael Bevan, Former Australian Cricketer and husband of Tracy Bevan

After spending a good deal of my career playing with Glenn, having the opportunity to be close friends with both Glenn and Jane and recognising the strong friendship between Tracy and Jane, it is an absolute pleasure and honour to be a Foundation Friend.

Knowing the importance and significance for not only Jane but also the wider public in raising the awareness for young women about breast cancer, and helping to provide support in the form of McGrath Breast Care Nurses to breast cancer patients, provides me with reason enough to help the McGrath Foundation in its efforts.

Matthew and Kellie Hayden, Former Australian cricketer and his wife

Jane, Glenn, James and Holly are, and will always be, a huge part of our life. Around cricket and away from cricket we have shared amazing times together.

The McGrath Foundation, in spite of the personal hardships this lion-hearted family has had to endure, has remained a beacon of hope and a deep source of comfort to thousands of women across Australia and the world. We are proud to be a small part of its wonderful work so that it may continue.

Adam Gilchrist, Former Australian cricketer

The help, support and love each breast care nurse provides their patients with is priceless. There truly is no monetary value that can be placed on what Jane and Glenn have established in the form of this amazing Foundation.

To use the experience of personal adversity in such a positive manner, to benefit others, is a mark of the highest quality of person. That is Jane and Glenn McGrath.

To all who have supported the program, we thank you, as do every breast cancer patient and their family. And of course all the staff at the Foundation continue to carry out the dreams of an amazing, thoughtful, fun, loving lady we are all blessed for having known. You guys too, are Angels.

I am thrilled to be a Foundation Friend.

Jason Gillespie, Former Australian cricketer

It is an absolute honour to be a Foundation Friend. The caring work done by the McGrath Breast Care Nurses to support women with breast cancer is selfless and inspiring and anything that can be done to create more opportunities for them to support the women they help is well worth it.

Our family and close friends have felt the effects of breast cancer so I had no hesitation in becoming an ambassador. The assistance the Foundation has received over the last few years is nothing short of amazing and everyone at the McGrath Foundation is so grateful for that support.

I have been fortunate to know the McGraths for many years and to be involved in any way with the Foundation is very humbling.

Shane Watson, Australian cricketer

I am just so grateful and honoured to be able to continue on the legacy of Jane McGrath as an official Foundation Friend. I was extremely privileged to get to know Jane through her soul mate, Glenn.

During Glenn's last international tour for Australia in 2007, I spent a lot of time with Glenn talking about all things in life and there were a couple of things that really stood out in my mind during the time we spent together.

The first one was how unbelievably positive Glenn was with all aspects of life, as he always saw the positive side to every situation. The second was the amazing strength that Jane had to continue her ongoing battle with cancer.

Glenn told me about the difficulties that both he and Jane had trying to deal with everything that went with fighting the horrific disease and how Jane's breast care nurse made such an amazing difference to both of their lives.

So this was both Jane and Glenn's dream, to provide a breast care nurse for every woman fighting breast cancer in Australia, to make the burden of fighting breast cancer that little bit easier.

My role as an official Friend of the McGrath Foundation is to continue to help to turn Jane and Glenn's dream into reality.

Lisa Sthalekar, Australian Women’s cricketer and NSW Captain

There seemed to be a connection with the McGrath Foundation and myself, as my mother passed away from breast cancer seven years ago.

At the time, I had taken a year off from University to take mum to the hospital for her daily radiation, chemotherapy and endless appointments. It was during this time that the breast care nurses became part of our family and I enjoyed seeing and catching up with them. Even after my mother passed away I still use to visit them on a regular basis. Everyone that is affected by breast cancer need help and support and the breast care nurses provide that.

Therefore, when Tracy spoke to me about being a Foundation Friend, I had no hesitation and the fact that my mother was English as well, sealed the deal. I am looking forward to working closely with the McGrath Foundation and making a difference.

Catherine Cox, Australian Diamonds and West Coast Fever netball player

Unfortunately, everyone seems to know someone who has been affected by breast cancer. Directly or indirectly, I think it is a disease that has touched all Australians.

Very recently, I personally lost one of the most influential women in my netball career, not to mention a great friend, to breast cancer and it just makes you realise how prevalent it really is.

Jodie Oddy, Adelaide radio host

In life, you meet certain people who just make you smile. Jane McGrath was one of those beautiful people, elegant, hilarious and when she laughed it was infectious. Her smile is unforgettable. Breast cancer robbed us all of an incredible woman, graceful mother, and lovable friend.

It's an absolute honour and privilege to represent the McGrath Foundation here in South Australia. Luckily I work in a medium that can reach out to hundreds of thousands every day, and I unashamedly intend to use my voice to continue Jane's legacy.

I hope together we can make the journey a little easier for the women in our state suffering from the disease that we all despise so greatly.

David Williams, Manly Sea Eagles NRL player

While I am extremely fortunate that I have not lost a close friend or family member to breast cancer, Jane's story has opened my eyes to the reality that breast cancer can affect women of any age. I am honoured to be a Foundation Friend and I wholly support their fundraising and awareness initiatives throughout Australia.

 

Andrew Reid, Bondi Lifeguard and star of Bondi Rescue

Unfortunately I never got to meet the beautiful Jane McGrath. Following her fight in the media made me realise just how much breast cancer effects not only the people diagnosed with the disease but also everyone around them. Starting the McGrath Foundation to give special support where it's needed most was a fantastic idea and I can't imagine how many people they have already helped since it was founded.

As a Foundation Friend, I hope I can help in whatever way possible and together as a community can eventually find a cure for this terrible disease.

Corey Oliver, Bondi Lifeguard and star of Bondi Rescue

Unfortunately, I didn't get the chance to meet the strong and amazing Jane McGrath, but I have been a part of a close friend's battle with breast cancer. I have seen how hard it is for the person and how much it affects the family and friends as a whole.

While I was training for the Sydney Marathon to help raise money for the McGrath Foundation, a very worthy cause, I was approached to be a Friend of the McGrath Foundation. I was honoured and had no hesitation in wanting to be an ambassador to help out in any way possible.

The McGrath Foundation is a fantastic cause and are tirelessly committed to helping so many women in need. Together, as a great nation, I know we can make a difference in helping so many more needy women battling with this terrible disease.

Justin Langer, Former Australian cricketer

Jane and Glenn have been close personal friends of mine and my wife Sue since my cricketing days.  When Jane passed away, it was such a sad time as she meant so much not only to Sue and I, but to Australia.

To see the Foundation growing in the way that it has in the past year really astounds me, and I’m thrilled to do my part to support the Foundation by becoming a Foundation Friend.

I am proud to be a part of a movement that is really spreading Jane and Glenn’s message and hopefully helping many other women diagnosed with breast cancer and their families.

Shannan Ponton, Biggest Loser Fitness Trainer

From my first contact with the McGrath Foundation and Tracy Bevan, I felt a sense of duty to repay in any way that I could, the debt that I owe to all the amazing women, who have shown me kindness, caring and love in my life.

It is the indiscriminate nature of cancer that I find horrific, the disease doesn't give a damn if you are fit, overweight, tall, short, healthy or just average.

As nature would have it, women are the nurturers and an all too common trait is to do everything for everyone else, genuinely, without question or need for accolades.

Being diagnosed with breast cancer changes the rules, suddenly our carers need care, the best available, nothing less.

A breast care nurse for every woman diagnosed with breast cancer should not be an option but an absolute. Our mothers, sisters, wives, friends and nannas have earned this right a hundred times over.

I was honoured to be asked to be a Foundation Friend to allow Jane’s dream to become a reality and feel proud to, in some way, to help assist all Australian women diagnosed with breast cancer and their families, so they can receive the level of care and support they deserve.

Damien Fleming, Former Australian cricketer

It is a great honour to become a Foundation Friend.  Anything that can be done to help support women and families dealing with the effects of breast cancer is essential. The efforts of the McGrath Foundation to date have been nothing short of extraordinary. Thanks to those assisting the Foundation, the bar has been set high but with a combined effort, let’s keep raising it.

Jane was an inspiration to all of us in the Aussie Cricket Team, mostly for putting up with Glenn! She had so much personality, love and courage. And through her legacy we will strive to employ more McGrath Breast Care Nurses around Australia to help deal with this dreadful disease. Hardly any family in Australia is untouched by breast cancer so all assistance is vital.

Julie Goodwin, Masterchef Winner

I am honoured and humbled to be asked to be a Foundation Friend. The loving care that is given to women experiencing breast cancer is an inspiration. We all know someone whose life is impacted by this disease and it is wonderful to know that there are people working hard to make sure that they are supported.

Melinda Schneider, singer and songwriter

When I was approached in late 2008 to become a Foundation Friend, I was honoured. I never had the pleasure of meeting Jane personally, but along with every other Australian, I was touched deeply by her strong, joyous spirit and courage.

I am committed to supporting Glenn and the McGrath Foundation in any way that I can in helping to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer in Australia.

Moyra MacGregor, Gold Coast radio presenter

I am truly honoured to be in any way associated with the McGrath Foundation.

Having watched the progress of the Foundation from a distance in the last couple of years, it makes me so happy to be involved in whatever way I can.

I was touched deeply when I met Tracy and heard her talk of her love and the beautiful spirit of Jane.

My mother died from breast cancer when I was 15 and I see this as a way to honour her and all the tough and amazing women who have struggled in the same way.

Eamon Sullivan, Olympic swimmer

I feel privileged to be welcomed as a Friend of the McGrath Foundation Family.

While no family or friend close to me has experienced breast cancer, Jane's story has made me realise that it can happen to anyone at any time. I have a sister and a mother with whom I am extremely close and would do anything for.

I never had the pleasure of meeting Jane, but the legacy she has left behind, her spirit and her courage is something that has inspired me to make a difference.

I am looking forward to developing my friendship with the McGrath Foundation, and helping out any way I can.

Shannon Noll, Singer

After learning more about the incredible work of the McGrath Foundation, I was determined to help Tracy and the team in any way I could.  

I’m proud to say I’m a Foundation Friend and I’m going to be lending my support as much as possible – it’s a huge honour for me to be involved.

 

Jason Hodges, Resident Gardener on 'Better Homes and Gardens'

I, like all of Australia, can remember the strength and selfless actions Jane showed in life. I am excited and determined to help achieve her dream of a breast care nurse for all in need.

I was drawn to the McGrath Foundation because of my Mum, Della. Mum has had to fight breast cancer twice, the first time was before I was born and again in 2007. We have been lucky, with Mum still here to nag me!

It is for my Mum, Jane, Glenn and Tracy and all the ladies that I whole-heartedly and with great pride say "I am a Foundation Friend".

Jason Roberts, Celebrity Chef

It’s a privilege to be an official Friend of such an incredible Foundation.  I am grateful to not only to spread the word, but to encourage the great legacy Jane has left behind.

My desire and overwhelming passion for this Foundation is not just because I am aware of the statistics, but because I have a sister, a mother, several aunties, nieces and cousins who all share a place in my heart and my life, and because they have breasts, they are a susceptible to this unforgiving cancer. Not a pleasant thought but a thought I became cognoscente of when my mother went through several procedures to have lumps removed from her breast.

So if it means putting on a tight pink t-shirt and cap, flipping burgers, icing cupcakes or feeding the masses, I am 100 percent there because I need to know that someone will be there to care for not only my family, but your family, if and when the Big C comes knocking.

Thank you to the McGrath Foundation for the wonderful work you do, and to the McGrath Breast Care Nurses who care so consciously and unconditionally. I am proud to call you my friends.

Darren Lehmann, Former Australian Cricketer

To be asked to be a Foundation Friend is a huge honour and a privilege. It is an organization that is very dear to my heart as I lost someone so special in my mother 5 years ago to breast cancer.

As Jane had said many times if she had a breast care nurse to help her through many different treatments and to help in all aspects of the cancer, then it would have been a god send. The care and the funds that are raised to provide for the McGrath Breast Care Nurses is a magnificent help for all patients and their families.

So to be a part of this great organization and to make sure that Jane’s legacy lives on, please help with me in any way you can to make it easier for the so many women experiencing breast cancer and their families.

Ellyse Perry, Australian Women's Cricketer and Australian Women's Football Player

The McGrath Foundation is the epitome of how far love, support and care go in making a difference in the lives of everyone, but particularly those facing significant challenges. Collectively, the tireless efforts of those involved with the Foundation, its supporters and friends have achieved so much to ensure that no woman feels alone in her fight against a most crippling and devastating disease. 

Jane McGrath is a true hero in every sense. Her legacy not only continues to provide strength and inspiration to women faced with the challenges of breast cancer, but also to all Australians who realise the great impact we can have on one another merely through sharing our own compassion and endearment for life. It is a true pleasure and privilege to be a Foundation Friend!

Lauren Brant, Hi-5 cast member

The McGrath Foundation is authentic, soulful and effectual; all essential elements one would seek when supporting a charity and the reason why I am so honoured to be a Foundation Friend.

Whether it be your friend, sister, mother or wife, that woman’s presence is cherished in your life for their essence; love, strength and guidance are characteristics that influence us.

The McGrath Foundation operates to protect our women and their families from losing that essence. We all need to save our ladies, young and old, through awareness and care, so I look forward to getting involved within the Foundation and hope to be a real asset.

Emily Jade, Media personality

All of us have been touched by breast cancer in some way or another, and fortunately or unfortunately I seem to meet women on a weekly basis through my work who have a breast cancer story to share. All of them are inspiring and courageous but their main story seems to be that they survived or got through the hard times with the help of friends, and breast care nurses.

This is why I am delighted to be involved with the McGrath Foundation, who provide a vital service that helps not just women experiencing breast cancer, but also the family and friends who support them. 

Wendell Sailor, Former Rugby League and Rugby Union player

I am truly honoured to have been asked to be a Foundation Friend. I never met Jane, but she always came across as such a strong and wonderful woman and I have admired Glenn for many years for all he has achieved on and off the field. I look up to and admire Jane and Glenn even more because of what they experienced and the strength they showed.

The work that the McGrath Foundation has done and continues to do would certainly make Jane proud. I am looking forward to helping in any way I can to continue this great work.

Luke and Sonia Lewis, Penrith Panthers NRL Player and his wife

We feel greatly honoured to become official Foundation Friends. It is truly humbling just to be a part of such an amazing organisation that brings to light awareness and support of breast cancer.

We are proud to continue the legacy of Jane McGrath and support the tireless efforts of McGrath Breast Care Nurses by ensuring our full commitment to the Foundation.

With so many loved ones touched by cancer every day, this is such an important cause and one that we are both truly proud to support.

Hamish & Andy, Comedy duo

We lend our support to the McGrath Foundation as it's a wonderful cause.

We both have close ones who have been affected by breast cancer and admire the great work done by the foundation to create awareness every year.

We also look amazing in pink, it brings out Hamish's eyes and accentuates Andy's curves.

Simon Katich, Australian cricketer

I was very fortunate to have played cricket with Glenn McGrath, who was an inspiration and champion on the field. However, Jane’s battle with cancer was far more inspirational to all of us who met her and it is an honour to be involved in helping the McGrath Foundation raise awareness and funds for such an important cause. 

I have personally been affected by breast cancer when my mother had it but was very fortunate that she had it detected early and is still alive and well. I hope that by helping to raise awareness and funds the McGrath Foundation can provide as many patients as possible with McGrath Breast Care Nurses.

Melinda Farrell, Sports Journalist

When the doctor first used the word cancer it seemed so surreal I almost didn't believe him. It wasn't until I walked into the operating theatre two weeks later and saw five people in white smocks preparing to perform surgery on me that I realised this was real and deadly serious. It scared the hell out of me. It wasn't breast cancer, it was a malignant melanoma - thankfully caught just in time. But after hearing Tracy Bevan speak so movingly about how a breast care nurse had made such a huge difference to Jane McGrath I was reminded of that terrifying day at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.

That's why I'm so happy and honoured to be a Foundation Friend, because although my brush with cancer was relatively minor I know the value of awareness and early detection and that fear of the unknown can take an enormous emotional and physical toll. Let's hope by spreading the message we can ensure all Australian women are breast aware, and provide care and support for all Australian families experiencing breast cancer.