20 Years of Care
years of
having a voice
years of
having a voice
years of
a calling for care
years of
a calling for care
years of
cricket for a cause
years of
cricket for a cause
years of
keeping a promise
years of
keeping a promise
20 years of care
It started with care, twenty years ago. A one-of-a-kind relationship changed cancer care in Australia forever.
From our first nurse in 2005 to the 302 incredible McGrath Cancer Care Nurses supporting communities today, we’ve helped over 161,000 individuals and families navigate cancer with expert, compassionate care.
Our 20th Anniversary is a moment to honour every supporter who’s walked beside us. This impact has only been possible because of you, your generosity and your unwavering commitment to care.
Now, we’re taking that care to all cancers. This year, we’re asking Australia to help fund 20 McGrath Cancer Care Nurses, so no one goes through cancer without care.
20 Stories of Care
To celebrate 20 years of the McGrath Foundation, we’re sharing 20 stories of care from the people who’ve shaped our journey, families who’ve been supported, McGrath Cancer Care Nurses who’ve made a difference, and supporters who’ve stood by our side.
More than 20 years ago, Alison Szwajcer met Jane McGrath. Alison was Jane’s breast care nurse, a humble but unforgettable presence who entered Jane’s life when her cancer returned and metastasised in 2006.
20 years ago, Tracy Bevan sat beside her best friend, Jane McGrath, sharing tears, laughter, and what felt like an impossible dream.
Over the last 20 years, McGrath Cancer Care Nurses have been a lifeline in regional and rural Australia, providing expert care, hope, and support to families during their toughest times.
For Emily Quinlan, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 25, having a voice meant having someone she could turn to - someone who was always in her corner.
At the heart of the McGrath Foundation’s extraordinary journey is Kerry Patford, one of the original McGrath Cancer Care Nurses who has since risen to become the Foundation’s Chief Nurse.
In communities across the country, acts both big and small demonstrate the creativity and generosity of everyday people in Australia who help raise vital funds for the McGrath Foundation.
We are proud to stand alongside our passionate partners who have turned Australia pink in support of people experiencing cancer. They have been instrumental to helping us work towards our purpose of ensuring that no one goes through cancer without care.
The McGrath Foundation has always evolved to meet the needs of people with breast cancer and now, as we expand our care to all cancers, that commitment is stronger than ever.
Father of two Paul Nelson, 64, has been diagnosed with cancer three times in 10 years. In the midst of this treatment he was connected with his McGrath Cancer Care Nurse, Nicola Lanci who Paul describes as a “life preserver”.
From towns turning pink to race days and high teas, people across Australia have turned passion into purpose, uniting to support people experiencing cancer.
From volunteering to monthly donations and legacy gifts, our supporters have shown what it truly means to give. For20 years, special people across the country have turned their personal experiences into lasting impact.
Some careers are just jobs – others become a life’s work, built on care and the chance to help others when they need it most. For McGrath Cancer Care Nurses Sharon Shelford and Karen Miles, that’s exactly what nursing has been. A privilege, a passion and, without a doubt, ‘the best job in the world.’
After 25 years as a graphic artist, David Brock longed for a career with deeper meaning – one that offered real connection, impact and ultimately more satisfaction.
Passionate people across Australia have rallied behind the McGrath Foundation in awe-inspiring ways – pushing limits, conquering epic challenges all in the name of raising vital funds for McGrath Cancer Care Nurses.
20 years ago, when the McGrath Foundation was started, Glenn McGrath could never have imagined how far his and Jane’s vision would go. What began as a deeply personal experience has grown into one of the most beloved and trusted charities in the country.
From the SCG at the Pink Test to community ovals around the nation for Pink Stumps Day, the past 20 years have proven one thing – cricket unites us.
In Warrnambool Victoria, appreciation for McGrath Cancer Care Nurse Bec Hay flows in every direction. From the patients she’s supported, to the communities that value her work, to the pride her own family has for everything she gives.
For almost 20 years we've supported families through cancer
McGrath Cancer Care Nurses have a proven positive impact on the lives of people experiencing cancer and their families. Learn more about how we’ve supported over 161,000 people and their families right across Australia.