After experiencing unusual problems with her vision in January 2024, Margie visited her GP who suspected she might be having a stroke or a migraine. Immediately referred to the emergency department at North Shore, scans revealed an ocular melanoma behind her eye.
Ocular melanoma
Ocular melanoma is a very rare type of cancer not caused by the sun or any lifestyle factors.
An oncology specialist recommended Margie to join an immunotherapy trial at the Kinghorn Cancer Centre. The trial treatment shrunk the tumour by 40% in six months, which she will continue for another six months.
Margie describes the treatment as life-saving.
The incredible effort of Margie's son, Jack
After hearing of Cancer Council's The Longest Day golf challenge, Margie's son Jack was inspired to participate, joining his school mate Cam's team for the Shore School community.
Jack explains, "I put a message into a WhatsApp group my auntie created, 'Margie's Wonderbras' with a goal of raising $250. We reached that in five minutes and by the next morning, we had over $1,000. The support was unbelievable."
Jack and The Shore School team started their Longest Day at 5 am at Northbridge Golf Course.
Reflecting on the 72 hole challenge, Jack says "I walked until late in the third round, and then mum came with a cart, which was a life-saver because my legs were done. As my mum and I came in after the final hole, the Shore team was waiting for us, clapping us in. There were about 50 parents, boys from school, and teachers."
Margie was deeply moved by the support. "The support was so touching, I was weeping by the end."
The Shore School Golf Team
2024 marked the third year The Shore School Golf Team had participated in The Longest Day. The team's goal for the year was eventually updated to $75,000, flying past the initial target of $25,000, with strong support from students, old boys, teachers and parents.
Reflecting on the support around her, Margie shares, "I'm incredibly grateful to my amazing husband Ford, as well as my children, Jack, Joe and Sophia, and of course the Wonderbras, for their support!"
Margie highlights the importance of the Cancer Council's work
"Cancer is a full-time job. I was really lucky that I had amazing support around me who, for example, could help me with my business", Margie says.
"But being around the treatment centre was eye-opening, seeing others who weren't as lucky to have the support network I did. I can see how important the work that Cancer Council does is to help. Once I put this behind me, I want to see how else I can get involved and help with that."
Jack raised a total of $10,383, contributing to the Shore School Team's total of $52,184.
