Giving back for Sue: Trisha and Luke's Story

“You walk into that volunteer room and the energy is incredible,” Luke says. “Everyone’s there for a good cause.” 

Once they stepped out into the Sydney Cricket Ground, the energy only grew. There’s cricket, plenty of pink and a community brought together by something bigger than the game. 

"It's energising," Trisha says.

But among all the colour and excitement, it’s the conversations with people throughout the day that stay with Luke most. 

“What we were blown away by was everyone’s willingness to share their story,” he says. “It’s really amazing that people come up to you and share the experiences they’ve been through.” 

Those open and honest conversations create a connection between volunteers and supporters that can be difficult to describe. 

“Obviously, we’re all there for the cricket, but the Pink Test brings everyone together,” Luke says. “We’ve all gone through something, and it’s the most amazing feeling. You can’t explain it until you’re part of it.” 

For anyone thinking about volunteering for the first time, Luke’s advice is to jump in. 

“It’s not intimidating and it’s not scary,” he says. “It’s just fun, and everyone’s so welcoming. You couldn’t recommend it more.”

For Trisha and Luke, the reason they volunteer is deeply personal. 

Their family first connected with the Foundation when Sue – Trisha’s sister and Luke’s mum – was diagnosed with breast cancer for the third time. Sue was connected with McGrath Cancer Care Nurse Sam, who helped coordinate her treatment, listened and provided support during an incredibly difficult time. 

Around the time of Sue’s diagnosis, her husband was also diagnosed with brain cancer. While facing her own treatment, Sue was caring for her lifelong partner through his diagnosis. 

“Mum was going through her own battles while also caring for Dad,” Luke says. 

Throughout it all, Sam became a source of expertise and comfort for Sue. 

“One of Mum’s positives out of the whole experience was Sam,” Luke says. “She was the light of her day.” 

Sue would return from appointments and tell her family about the care she had received.

“Every week, Mum would come home and say how happy and caring Sam was, and how she had helped her,” Luke says. “The impact Sam had on Mum was just amazing, and we’re truly grateful for that.” 

Their family saw firsthand the difference the care of a McGrath Cancer Care Nurse can make. Today, volunteering is their way of helping more families access that same care. 

Day 1 of the Pink Test also falls on Sue’s birthday. For Trisha, Luke and their loved ones, coming together is a chance to remember Sue, celebrate her life and give back to a cause that meant so much to her. 

“It’s heartwarming,” Luke says. “It’s her birthday, and we’re able to give back to a cause she was so passionate about and that supported her. It’s a really special feeling.” 

They’re not only continuing Sue’s legacy. They’re celebrating it – with good energy, good people and a cause that will always be close to their hearts.