Elaine Finlay reflects on cancer diagnosis ahead of second Pink Stumps Day

When a Central Queensland mum was diagnosed with breast cancer, she never expected her local community to rally around her the way it did. Now, she’s doing all she can to give back.

A breast cancer survivor has spoken of the “unbelievable” support from her Central Queensland community and the importance of accessible healthcare ahead of the second local ‘Pink Stumps’ charity game this weekend.

In November 2020, Elaine Finlay was rocked by a breast cancer diagnosis that turned her family’s life “upside down”, however, more than two years on and cancer free, she said her focus was now on helping as many women receive the same level of care as she did.

On Saturday, the Boyne Island Tannum Sands Cricket Club will celebrate its 40th year, as well as hosting its second Pink Stumps Day to raise funds for the Mcgrath Foundation.

Linden and Elaine Finlay two years ago at the very first Pink Stumps Day hosted at BITS Cricket Club. Picture: Supplied

The first Pink Stumps Day at BITS, held just a few months after Elaine’s diagnosis, feels like a lifetime ago to the Finlay family who said they were overwhelmed by the love and generosity of the Boyne/Tannum and Gladstone communities.

“Two years ago when I was in the early stages of my treatment, I was very frail and in a vulnerable state due to the effects of chemotherapy and the roller coaster ride that the diagnosis brings, so to have the community support me and my family was unbelievable as I didn’t feel like I was anyone special,” Elaine said.

“I arrived at the cricket ground a few hours late because I was so exhausted but I immediately felt the emotion of everyone looking at me and wanting to see how I was, honestly it felt like I was crowd surfing.”

Elaine said she was indebted to the McGrath Foundation and her breast care nurse, Sally, who helped navigate a confusing and distressing time as well as being a rock for her family.

The team photo from players at the first Pink Stumps Day in 2021. Picture: Supplied

This Saturday, the community will gather once more to watch an entertaining game of cricket and raffle off a number of major and minor prizes while being entertained by music, food and drinks to raise vital funds.

The exhibition match will be played between ‘Linden’s legends’ including Elaine’s husband Linden and sons, and an invitational side featuring some of the best cricketing talent across the region.

Linden said this weekend would be more of a celebration for friends and family, as the first event was clouded by concern as Elaine’s battle was only just beginning.

“It has been really humbling to have the outpouring of support, the willingness of individuals and businesses to donate anything from $20 vouchers right up to major prizes worth well over $1000 has been incredible,” Linden said.

“Our families have been tied to this community for so long and how they responded was unbelievable, the first event was massive and I’ve got a really good feeling about this weekend.”

The Finlay family along with Breast Care Nurse, Sally (second on left) from the first Pink Stumps Day. Picture: Supplied

Linden said he wanted other families to receive the same care as the Finlays regardless of whether they lived in Emerald or Blackwater and no one should have to travel hours to see a breast care nurse.

The event will begin at 1pm with the first ball bowled at 2pm.

More information can be found on the Facebook event.

People can also donate to the McGrath Foundation here.

The McGrath Foundation aims to have 250 Breast Care Nurses by 2025 across Australia to ensure no one misses out on the care everyone deserves.