Helen Misa

Joanna's story

Joanna, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000 and went through chemotherapy. Having battled that she was diagnosed with another cancer (unrelated) 24 years later...  a rare and aggressive cancer, cholangiocarcinoma. Sadly she passed away less than 5 months later on March 5, 2025, (aged 61).

Joanna was one of a kind...a real individual. She was a loving and devoted mother and  daughter, a loving sister, caring aunty,  a talented artist/creative, administrator, academic and 7 time marathon runner. She was an incredibly strong, determined and giving woman and is greatly missed by her family.

It seems fitting that our team will be on a track for Joanna in her honour as she spent so many hours running on tracks in her training, marathons and half marathons. 

Our team is dedicating our walk and efforts in memory of Joanna Gaudry. 

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Message from Cancer Council:

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!