‘Always there to wipe a tear’: Madi praises Gary Rohan

Madi Bennett has opened up about her bond with Geelong forward Gary Rohan, saying he’s been the “biggest support” she could have imagined in tough times.

Gary Rohan and Madi Bennett. Picture: Instagram

Madi Bennett has paid tribute to her partner, Geelong forward Gary Rohan, for his ongoing love and support.

The physiotherapist said Rohan has helped her through some tough times and is keen to learn more after she lost her mum to Huntington’s disease when she was 19.

“Unfortunately Gary never got to know mum but he’s been the biggest support I could have imagined,’’ Bennett, 27, said.

“He’s always there to wipe a tear when I need it. It’s not as though he didn’t know any of this about me but he’s learning more and more. Gary wants to do anything he can to promote and help raise awareness of the disease.”

Madi Bennett and Gary Rohan.

Bennett spoke at length about her personal tragedy in a podcast interview in August, which Rohan posted and shared with love and pride for his partner of more than a year.

She is using Mental Health Awareness Week to raise awareness of the mental struggles of Huntington’s disease, which is a genetic neurodegenerative condition that impacts the brain, leading to brain cell death.

Bennett is part of the committee at Huntington’s Victoria, who have postponed their annual fundraising gala ball at the Plaza Ballroom until March 12 and have organised a family day at Luna Park on December 11.

“The reaction to the podcast was huge and I was really blown away,’’ Bennett said.

“Exposing it in the public eye was important and no one really knew what the disease was. It meant a lot to support networks and people I knew in everyday life, who were able to make a connection.

“I was hiding it because I didn’t want anyone to know, but opening up a talk line and making a bit of noise and getting the disease out there is just the tip of the iceberg.

“I’m in awe of how MND has taken the reins with their incredible and huge reach, so one step at a time.”

Gary Rohan’s post paying tribute to partner Madi.

Bennett with Rohan and his kids before his 150th game this year. Picture: Getty Images

Bennett’s mum passed away aged 47 after a seven-year battle.

She said Rohan, father of two daughters from his marriage to Amie, is keen to help any way he can.

“There is a community cricket fundraiser in Bendigo in February, which we’re calling Hit HD for Six, and Gary is going to be part of it in a small way,’’ she said.

“He’s been very special and my family couldn’t thank him enough as well for being able to support me because they’re out in the country.”

*Huntington’s disease has a prevalence of five to 10 per 100,000 people, and children of a positive parent have 50 per cent chance of inheriting the gene.

huntingtonsvic.org.au

Originally published as ‘Always there to wipe a tear’: Madi praises Gary Rohan