NIXON5

Makayla's Story

Back in 2019, my 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 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 taken part in the Relay for Life for the last 3 years, each time participating with either her wheelchair or crutches. This year, however, she’s set herself a new goal: to walk 10 laps before needing to use support.

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.

Cancer impacts so many of us, and this year, we’re fighting back. Our team are taking on Relay For Life to raise vital funds for people impacted by cancer.

In Australia, around 134,000 people are diagnosed with cancer every year. They could be our loved ones, our colleagues, or even ourselves. But we’re determined to make sure more people (and their families!) get the support they need.

To get there, our team are going the distance. We’re taking on the laps so Cancer Council can offer support services to families through one of the most difficult times of their lives.

But like us, your support goes far. Your donation can tackle every aspect of every cancer. Together, we can fund life-changing cancer research, prevention and advocacy — and make powerful strides against cancer in our communities.

United, we are stronger than cancer. Please donate to our team today and help support a cancer free future. Thank you!