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- 20 Years Of Our Incredible Nurses
20 years of our incredible nurses
Bec Hay, McGrath Cancer Care Nurse
In Warrnambool Victoria, appreciation for McGrath Cancer Care Nurse Bec Hay flows in every direction.
From the patients she’s supported, to the communities that value her work, to the pride her own family has for everything she gives.
“I’m very proud to be involved. From humble beginnings to what it is now – what a success story, what a legacy, what a tribute to Jane.”
- Bec
For nearly two decades Bec, like so many of the 302 McGrath Cancer Care Nurses across Australia, has become a central figure in her regional community. As Bec puts it, “It’s really humbling when you’re out in the community or even at a local cafe, and someone comes up to chat. That hits home.”
When her grandmother, Lorna, was referred to her as a patient, Bec started to see her work in a new light.
“The experience with my grandmother allowed me to see the cancer experience from a different perspective, particularly when it comes to supporting family members,” she explains.
“I know how important it is to listen, respect and educate both my patients and their families.”
Away from her nursing work, Bec’s had her own challenges. In 2018, her husband Michael passed away, leaving her to raise their young son Hudson while continuing her demanding work and managing their family cattle farm. Through it all, Hudson – now 13 – has remained one of her biggest supporters.
Throughout everything, Bec has felt the appreciation of the McGrath Foundation community – from the locals of Warrnambool to the thousands of Australians during the Pink Test, which she’s attended several times.
“Seeing the sea of pink at the Sydney Cricket Ground during the Pink Test puts it into perspective. The gratitude shown by the community is just overwhelming.”
- Bec
At the heart of the McGrath Foundation’s extraordinary journey is Kerry Patford, one of the original McGrath Cancer Care Nurses who has since risen to become the Foundation’s Chief Nurse.
Over the last 20 years, McGrath Cancer Care Nurses have been a lifeline in regional and rural Australia, providing expert care, hope, and support to families during their toughest times.
20 years ago, Tracy Bevan sat beside her best friend, Jane McGrath, sharing tears, laughter, and what felt like an impossible dream.
More than 20 years ago, Alison Szwajcer met Jane McGrath. Alison was Jane’s breast care nurse, a humble but unforgettable presence who entered Jane’s life when her cancer returned and metastasised in 2006.
For Emily Quinlan, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 25, having a voice meant having someone she could turn to - someone who was always in her corner.
After 25 years as a graphic artist, David Brock longed for a career with deeper meaning – one that offered real connection, impact and ultimately more satisfaction.