Port District Football Club raising funds for terminally ill Mirella Smith

One of SA’s biggest local footy clubs has united to support and raise funds for a mother battling terminal cancer.

One of SA’s biggest local footy outfits has come together to support a mother battling terminal illness.

The Port District Football Club held a triathlon fundraiser event for terminally ill supporter Mirella Smith on Sunday.

Mirella, mother of two boys Christian – who plays for the club’s under-16s side – and Charlie, was originally diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in 2021.

The 46-year-old, who at one point underwent 23 consecutive radiotherapy sessions and then surgery before finding out she had a brain tumour in 2022, had major scans in October that revealed multiple other lesions in different areas of her body.

“It’s so aggressive now that there isn’t much more the doctors can do and she has been classified as palliative,” husband Rick said.

Mirella Smith with sons Christian (left) and Charli, and husband Rick, at Port District’s triathlon fundraiser on Sunday. Picture: Supplied

“Just last week she made the decision she’s not going to do any more treatment because of the impact it was all having on her.

“The boys are now 13 and 15 years old and it’s been pretty tough for them but we try to remain as transparent as we can and keep them informed.”

In response to the Smith family’s situation, Port District moved to show its support by assisting with a GoFundMe page for Mirella.

The under-16s team also decided to hold Sunday’s triathlon fundraiser, with all competitors making a donation for the family.

Dozens of players, staff members and supporters took to the club to show their support.

46-year-old Mirella Smith is battling terminal cancer. Picture: Supplied

“The event was absolutely amazing – people were just so supportive and so generous with their time and effort,” Rick said.

“Christian has been playing at the club for three years now and I think just having his mates there for him has been huge.

“It’s a really family-oriented club and we’re all one big family really, so it means a lot.”

Rick also said while Mirella faced a number of ongoing major challenges with her health, the support of friends, family and the footy club had kept her pushing forward.

“She’s still fighting and days like Sunday keep her going and keep her pushing on.

Players competing in Sunday’s triathlon. Picture: Supplied

“It was quite an emotional day but we’re so proud to be part of a club like that.

“Every bit of support from friends, family, the club and other members of the public has helped us and we’re so grateful.”

Port District junior football president Andrew Marks said he was proud of those who participated.

“When you sit back and really think about it, it’s really special to see 15- and 16-year-old lads raise what was around $1400 for their friend’s mum and the family,” Marks said.

“Footy clubs become your community, they become your home and your family.

“You always want to be there for your family and support them and we’re going to make sure we continue to support Mirella and the Smith family.”

You can make a donation to the family here.