Glenn McGrath is still on mission to help those with breast cancer

Fifteen years after his wife, Jane, died from breast cancer, Glenn McGrath is still on a mission to help all those diagnosed with the same disease.

Cancer is something Glenn McGrath doesn’t sugar-coat.

“It’s a bloody awful disease,” the former international cricketer and McGrath Foundation co-founder and president says.

It’s been 15 years since the death of his wife Jane of breast cancer, and 18 years since they founded the foundation that’s supported tens of thousands of Aussies by providing hundreds of

breast care nurses to people in need. The third day of the first Sydney Test cricket match at the Sydney Cricket Ground each year is known as Jane McGrath Day, where spectators wear pink and money is raised for the cause that will always be Glenn’s mission.

“The Jane McGrath High Tea is an incredibly special event for my family,” he says.

Glenn McGrath at last year’s Jane McGrath Day. Picture: Chris Pavlich Photography/McGrath Foundation

“There aren’t too many people who don’t know someone who has been affected by breast cancer … and for me, both the Jane McGrath High Tea and the entire Sydney Pink Test are about hope and coming together to make a real impact to people with breast cancer.

“Each January the event seems to get bigger and pinker than the last. When I look around the room every year, I’m incredibly proud and grateful to everyone who has come out to support us.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at last year's Jane McGrath Day. Picture: Chris Pavlich Photography/McGrath Foundation

“There’s really nothing else quite like it on the cricket calendar.

“The families and patients I speak to tell me having the free support of one of our McGrath Breast Care Nurses when they are going through breast cancer is life changing.

“Our nurses recognise that people don’t just need help with cancer treatment, but support for the way breast cancer impacts the rest of your life – that’s why we we’re on a mission to ensure that no one goes through breast cancer without the care of a breast care nurse and the funds raised through the Jane McGrath Tea is one of the ways that will help us do this.”

Phoebe Sceresini spoke at last year’s event, after being diagnosed with breast cancer when she was just 27 – and getting the news on the morning of her hen’s party.

“I was fighting something that I might not have beat – it was bone-chillingly terrifying,” she says.

“What happens next, I’m not sure. But there’s one thing I know for absolute certain, I am alive. I am proud of the warrior I found inside of me. Everything seems brighter now. I am alive.

Phoebe Sceresini (centre) was the speaker at last year’s Jane McGrath High Tea. She was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was just 27. Picture: Chris Pavlich Photography/McGrath Foundation

“Reflecting on this entire experience, I now recognise the fact that life is a gift.

“I feel as though my life means more to me now, and I want to live for all the people who don’t get the opportunity to do that anymore.

“It is a responsibility, that I take very seriously.

“Navigating life after a cancer diagnosis has been challenging. Cancer took a lot from me; but it has given me so much too.

“It’s hard to describe, but it changed the way I think and feel about everything in my life. It’s like my senses have been reawakened and I can really start living my life.

“My healing journey is just beginning.”