Brisbane 15-year-old Matt Millar’s deadly brain cancer diagnosis
A Brisbane family is desperately trying to raise $85,000 for overseas treatment for their 15-year-old who was given months to live after being diagnosed a rare brain cancer.
Southeast
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A Brisbane family is desperately trying to raise $85,000 for overseas treatment for their 15-year-old who was given months to live after being diagnosed a rare brain cancer.
Matt Millar, 15, of Macgregor, was diagnosed with the aggressive cancer last month.
His parents said his only hope for survival was cutting edge treatment in Mexico.
Family friend Brenton Drennert, who has connections to the hospital in Mexico, said the Millar family knew something was wrong when Matt started experiencing worrying symptoms in late July including vision loss and the inability to use his right hand.
His cancer diagnosis turned the world upside down for Matt’s parents Stu and Maria and their other three children.
“But their priorities are clear,” Mr Drennert said.
“Cherishing each moment with Matt and keeping eternity in perspective.”
They have now been faced with tormenting medical decisions no parent should ever be forced to make.
“After consulting with oncologists in Australia, Stu and Maria recently learned of treatment available overseas at the Oasis of Hope Hospital in Mexico,” Mr Drennert said.
“This innovative technology has shown great promise and it’s Matt’s best chance at overcoming this terrible disease.”
He would require an intensive 20-day hospital stay for the treatment, plus follow-up care and further treatment three months later.
“Time is of the essence to start this multi-faceted protocol that includes dendritic cell therapy, Vit b17 infusions (neither are available in Australia), diet changes, high dose vitamins, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, immune therapies and more,” Mr Drennert said.
“The Millar Family are people of steadfast faith and selfless service. Stu’s ministry work sharing the Gospel takes him around the globe.
“Maria lovingly homeschools their children while working weekends as a nurse.
“Their eldest son Sam just completed vocational training, while daughters Amy and Libby attend school at home.
“This family pours themselves into bringing light to others and now they are the ones in need.”
Mr Drennert has launched a GoFundMe campaign to fundraise the $85,000 needed for Matt’s treatment.
“This staggering amount is impossible for the Millar Family to pay out of pocket,” he said.
“Their only option is to humbly reach out and ask for support to save their precious son’s life.
“Please consider giving even a small amount to help the Millar family through this difficult chapter. Your donation will provide tangible hope that Matt can defy the odds and overcome this vicious disease. More importantly, it lets them know they are not alone.”
Loved ones know Matt for his dreams of having his own family one day and his infectious smile.
“Matt has so much life yet to live, surrounded by loved ones who adore him,” Mr Drennert said.
“He still dreams of a future.
“Finishing school, developing his many talents, and making his mark on the world. Maybe even falling in love one day and having a family of his own.”
You can donate to help the family here.
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