Liz Dawes’ tireless campaign to honour her son with brain cancer fight continues
CONNOR Dawes was one of those kids who could offer wry observations on life. His mum, Liz, says her son looked at things a little differently, but she’s not sure what he might think of her efforts to fundraise in his honour.
CONNOR Dawes was one of those kids who could offer wry observations on life.
His mum, Liz, says her son looked at things a little differently.
$100M RESEARCH PLAN TO DOUBLE BRAIN CANCER SURVIVAL
VICTORIAN MUM RAISES $1M FOR NEW BRAIN CANCER TOOL
But she’s not sure what he might think of her efforts to fundraise in his honour.
Four-and-a-half years since his death, Ms Dawes has helped raise millions to help change the odds for children diagnosed with paediatric brain cancer.
“Connor would think I was crazy, but he wouldn’t be surprised,’’ Ms Dawes said. “He would believe in me and maybe that’s what inspires me to keep doing this.”
The Robert Connor Dawes Foundation has raised $3 million so far.
And the federal government has committed to match contributions for the foundation’s Aim Brain Project that will ensure every diagnosed child in Australia will be given a full diagnostic test in a $2m project over four years.
Ms Dawes has also lured a string of corporate partners including Coles and NAB with ongoing funding set to ensure access to cutting-edge technology for personalised treatment plans for sick kids. “When doctors told us that there was nothing more they could do for Connor, I was incredulous,’’ she said.
“We have really set out to change the odds.’’
Ms Dawes said was happy to have become a passionate advocate for the cause, in the hope others didn’t have to face such a grim diagnosis. “I think there are special people who can sum up situations and look at life with a different coloured lens,’’ Ms Dawes said.
“Connor was that kind of a kid. I miss that ... and I miss him.’’
Originally published as Liz Dawes’ tireless campaign to honour her son with brain cancer fight continues
‘Angels’: Hero Coles workers save mum’s life
A mother of three has opened up on how her life was saved after she suddenly collapsed while doing a routine supermarket shop.
Workplaces worst hit by coronavirus revealed
The workplaces worst hit by coronavirus outbreaks have been revealed, with warehouses and abattoirs among the industries that have suffered the most. It comes as Victoria records its deadliest day yet.
How to mark the VP Day 75th anniversary at home
It is 75 years since World War II ended, but traditional Victory in the Pacific Day commemorations are off the table this year. Here’s how to honour our veterans in lockdown.