I am fundraising to support my coworker Briony and her family during an incredibly frightening and life-changing medical crisis. With Briony’s permission, I am sharing her family’s story to help support her husband Chris, who is currently undergoing urgent treatment following the sudden discovery of a brain tumour.

Briony, Chris, and their 11-year-old daughter are temporarily away from their usual home so they can remain close to the hospital and support one another during this time. This fundraiser is supported by Briony’s colleagues, who want to help ease the financial strain so the family can focus on staying together while Chris recovers.

Their story: A close-knit family of three from rural South West Victoria had their lives change in an instant when Chris suddenly became unwell.

 Chris, a kind, hardworking husband and devoted father, wasn’t himself. He seemed unusually tired, was tripping over, and struggled with everyday tasks that normally came easily. Thinking it might be something minor, such as low potassium, his wife suggested he visit hospital to be checked.

While Briony and their 11-year-old daughter were nearby, they returned to news that turned their world upside down. Chris had been diagnosed with a brain tumour and required urgent specialist care.

 Doctors discovered a 2 to 3cm tumour on the right side of his brain, the area responsible for movement on the left side of the body. The only way to identify the tumour type was through open brain surgery.

 On 12 January, Chris underwent a nine-hour open brain surgery. Surgeons believe they were able to remove approximately 95 percent of the tumour. While the family is still waiting on final pathology results, they remain hopeful about the progress so far.

 Tragically, within 24 hours of surgery, Chris suffered a bleed on the brain. This resulted in loss of movement on his left side and a critical stay in intensive care, where he fought bravely day after day.

 After eight long days, there was finally light. Chris is still here. He has now been moved out of ICU to a high-dependency ward, a milestone that brings hope. As long as he is here, everything else can be faced. Chris will need another surgery to replace the top of his skull with a plate, as part of it was removed to allow swelling to reduce and to ensure easier access if complications arose.

Following this, he will begin a long and challenging journey of rehabilitation. Once the tumour type is confirmed, Chris may require further treatment such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or ongoing monitoring.

These next steps will determine the length and complexity of his recovery and how long the family will need to remain close to specialist care.

 Throughout this time, the family has needed to stay close to the hospital to support Chris through treatment and recovery. Being away from their usual home for an extended period has created significant financial strain, including accommodation, food, travel, and everyday living costs.

 Their greatest priority is staying together as a family. Keeping their daughter close, supported, and surrounded by love is essential during such an uncertain and frightening time.

 The road ahead is long, and much remains unknown, but this family is determined to face whatever comes together.

Any support will help ease the financial burden so they can focus on healing, recovery, and keeping their family united.  Donations will help ease the cost of accommodation and daily living while the family remains close to the hospital during Chris’s recovery.

 Thank you for taking the time to read and for any support you are able to give. Every message, share, and donation means more than words can express, and helps this family focus on healing, hope, and being together.