Help our dad, Mark Whitelaw, overcome major medical hardship

We're reaching out with heavy hearts to ask for your support for a truly incredible man, our dad, Mark.

Mark has been battling serious health issues for years. In 2018, he bravely fought and survived stomach cancer, which led to the complete removal of his stomach. While this lifesaving surgery gave him more time, it came at a steep cost. He has suffered from extreme weight loss, chronic nutritional deficiencies and ongoing health complications since.

Now, Mark is facing yet another devastating blow. He has recently been diagnosed with advanced diabetes-related complications, and is at risk of losing his foot, or even his entire leg, due to poor circulation and unhealed wounds. Despite every effort to manage his condition with medication, hospital visits, and home care, the prognosis is bleak without further treatment and support.

Mark is not just battling for his health, he's fighting to keep his independence and quality of life. Unfortunately, the system has failed him. Despite the extensive, medical evidence we've submitted, Centrelink has shockingly deemed our father "fit to work". Even though he is physically unable to walk without assistance, in constant pain and struggling with the serious impacts of both diabetes and his previous cancer treatment.

We've been denied vital financial support, and government programs have offered no real assistance.

As a result, we are now desperately trying to raise funds to help Mark cover:

This is not a situation where someone is asking for help lightly. Mark has fought every step of the way with courage, grace and humility. But now, we need help so he can continue fighting without the added stress of financial hardship.

Any donation, no matter how big or small, will go directly to helping Mark get the care he urgently needs. Even if you can't donate, sharing this page can make a huge difference in reaching others who might be able to.

Mark deserves dignity, comfort and hope, as he faces these terrifying challenges. With your help, we can make sure he's not fighting this battle alone.

Thank you so much for reading, sharing and supporting.

With gratitude,

The Whitelaw Family