NIXONS5

Every Step a Victory Against Cancer

Back in 2019, our then nine-year-old daughter, Makayla, was diagnosed with a very rare form of bone cancer called Adamantinoma, affecting her left leg.

In 2020, she underwent major surgery at Westmead Children’s Hospital, where doctors removed her entire left tibia. They then harvested her fibula from the right leg to graft in its place leaving her with only the tibia in the right leg, and now two fibulas in the left. It was an intense and emotional journey, and Makayla and I spent most of that year in hospital, away from her dad, brother, and sister, which was incredibly difficult for all of us.

Since then, Makayla has faced multiple surgeries, countless hospital visits and treatments, and long stretches of time using a wheelchair or crutches. She has also endured several broken bones along the way. Despite everything, her courage and positivity never fade, she continues to smile, laugh, and show incredible determination to beat this cancer.

Having to give up many of her favourite sports and activities has been heartbreaking for her, but she remains resilient and focused on what she can do. Over the past few years, Makayla has participated in Relay for Life, each time completing the event using either her wheelchair or crutches. This year, however, she has set herself an inspiring new goal: to walk 10 laps unaided before needing any support. Walking is particularly challenging for Makayla, as her legs tire easily and are at risk of injury if overexerted. Nevertheless, she always finds a way to navigate the track, determined to keep moving forward in her own way. Altogether, the Nixon team is aiming to walk and run a total of 100 km.

We would be deeply grateful for your support in helping Makayla raise vital funds for cancer research. Every contribution helps bring us closer to a cure and gives hope to children like Makayla who continue to fight with extraordinary strength and spirit.

This year, I’m taking on Relay For Life to raise funds for every person who’s ever heard the words: “you have cancer”. In 2024, more than 150, 000 Australians will receive the news. Among them are our friends, families and colleagues.

Cancer is a devastating disease for so many. For people living with cancer, their treatments can be long and stressful. For those without solutions, the future can be uncertain. It’s a concern shared by their loved ones.

But with your support, I hope to help as many people impacted by cancer as possible. Together, we can support families when they need it most, empower people to reduce their risk, speak up for communities, and find new ways to better detect and treat cancer.

Every step I take is one closer to a cancer free future. But I can’t do it alone! Please donate to my Relay today and together, we can help Cancer Council provide life-changing support services, advocacy, prevention and research across Australia.

Thank you for stepping up. Together we’ll make powerful strides against cancer!