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- Simon's story: A cricket tragic with a cause close to heart
Simon's story: A cricket tragic with a cause close to heart
For Simon, cricket has always been more than a game, it’s been a lifelong passion, a family tradition, and ultimately, a bridge to supporting a cause that means the world to him.
“I’ve been a cricket tragic since before Test cricket even came to Perth,” Simon says. “I used to go to Sheffield Shield games with my uncle, who was a WACA member. He’d take me along, and I absolutely loved it.”
After spending 32 years living overseas, Simon returned to Australia in 2006 and one of the first things he did was reconnect with the game he loved. That’s when the Pink Test became a cherished annual tradition.
“I’d travel to Sydney to visit family, celebrate New Year’s Eve, and then head to the SCG for the Test. I’d always donate to the volunteers and pick up a bit of pink merchandise. My sister had survived breast cancer, and my grandmother had passed away from it, so it meant something personal.”
A few years ago, Simon lost his cousin to cancer. One of his most treasured memories is a photo of the two of them at the Pink Test.
“That photo means everything to me. It reminds me of the good times, and why I continue to support the McGrath Foundation.”
- Simon
In 2016, Simon’s son, fresh out of high school, joined the McGrath Foundation’s fundraising team. When he asked his dad to sign up as a regular giver, Simon didn’t hesitate.
“I wanted to support him in his first job, but I also knew it was a way to keep giving back. I’ve been a regular donor ever since.”
Now a pensioner, Simon hasn’t been able to return to the Pink Test since before COVID. But his commitment hasn’t wavered.
“I may not be in the stands anymore, but I’m proud to still support the Foundation. I’ll keep giving for as long as I can. Knowing that my donation helps place a McGrath Cancer Care Nurse beside someone going through cancer — that means the world to me.”
Simon is especially proud of the McGrath Foundation’s recent expansion to support people with all types of cancer.
“It’s wonderful to see the Pink Test grow to include everyone affected by cancer. It makes me feel like my cousin’s story, and so many others, are part of this legacy too.”
From the cricket stands to the heart of the McGrath Foundation, Simon’s story is a powerful reminder of how personal passion can fuel lasting impact.
When Renee was 33, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in her left breast. In November last year, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in her right breast. Being married and raising three young boys and running a business with her husband, Renee quickly acted and sought treatment.
Jade Wendt, 45, had just finished supporting her mum through breast cancer when she was diagnosed herself. Four months later, her husband David, 44, “stole her limelight” when he was diagnosed with renal cancer while she was midway through her third round of chemotherapy.
Anne and Rakhi first crossed paths as registered nurses in the same hospital ward. Their bond grew even stronger in 2019, when Anne was diagnosed with breast cancer and again 18 months later, when Rakhi faced her own diagnosis.
“The day was just fantastic - beautiful weather, beautiful company, generous people and a great cause. I walked away thinking I’ve made a contribution. It felt really good and I’ll be back there in January.”
Anne and Rakhi first crossed paths as registered nurses in the same hospital ward. Their bond grew even stronger in 2019, when Anne was diagnosed with breast cancer and again 18 months later, when Rakhi faced her own diagnosis.