As part of Brain Cancer Awareness Month, we’re honouring the fundraisers, advocates, clinicians and researchers who are working together to drive faster breakthroughs in brain cancer.
One of them is Shannon Camilleri. In the lead-up to May, Shannon set herself a goal: walk or run 200km to raise funds and awareness for Brain Cancer Australia.
A speech pathologist by training, Shannon has seen the impact of brain cancer firsthand through her work in palliative care. “You see the toll it takes on patients and families, especially around communication and end-of-life support. Those moments really stay with you,” she says.
Now working at the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre, Shannon has an appreciation for the power of research and the impact of small donations.
“We often talk about major national grants, but I’ve seen how small amounts can go a long way. Every dollar funds a part of a project, and every project is a step forward.”
The decision to launch a 200km fundraiser was inspired after Shannon heard a heartbreaking story of a brain cancer diagnosis on a podcast. “It was something I’d wanted to do for a long time, and I thought—why not now?”
Shannon was drawn to Brain Cancer Australia because of the focus on supporting research. “There are so many organisations doing fantastic things for patients, but we often neglect the fact we need to support researchers with the resources they need to drive progress.”
To reach her goal, Shannon did the Kiama and Gerringong return walk, covered ground in Bicentennial Park and Western Sydney Regional Park and did “many, many laps” of Sydney Park after work.
After reaching 200km, Shannon hit her fundraising target and wants others to know they can make a difference. “No contribution is too small. If five people in your network learn about brain cancer who didn’t know before, that’s a win. Every small act creates a ripple effect.”
You can support Shannon's fundraising efforts here.
