Neil’s Fighting Chance

My name is Helen McEvoy and I am the wife of Neil McEvoy. It pains me to be writing this when only several weeks ago we were filled with so much excitement for everything we had planned in 2025..

On 11 March, our lives were turned upside when Neil was diagnosed with a brain tumour and underwent emergency surgery. It was hoped that during surgery, the tumour would be resurrected. Sadly, due to the positioning of Neil’s tumour and the potential life altering effects resurrection could have had on his cognitive function and motor skills, the tumour was not resurrected and only a biopsy was taken.

On 14 March, our worst fears were confirmed; Neil’s tumour is cancerous and extremely aggressive. A six week treatment plan of radiotherapy and chemotherapy was put in place and although his life expectancy still not great, the treatment would have allowed Neil some extra time to travel and enjoy life with his two daughters.

However, the day prior to Neil’s treatment start date, we received more devastating news; in the two weeks following surgery the tumour had doubled in size and started to spread to other areas of Neil’s brain. His treatment plan was reduced by half and his life expectancy shortened to a timeframe we as a family simply cannot come to terms with.

The treatment options for Neil’s type of tumour in Australia are extremely limited. So Neil has two options right now, sit at home and let cancer take ahold of him or take a fighting chance by heading overseas to have world leading experts in neurosurgery operate further.

Neil is a family man. Neil is a fighter. Neil is a pain in the ass in the best way possible. The only option we have to give him more time is by raising enough money to allow for us to pay for surgery overseas.

Any and all donations would mean the world to us with the surgery itself costing $80,000.

For those that have the pleasure of knowing my wonderful family, you would understand that the last few years have been extremely difficult following the loss of our son in 2014. We have spent many years grieving and healing whilst being supported by the most amazing friends and family. It has only been in the last few years, our family has started to thrive again and we are desperate to ensure our family can continue to make memories and enjoy the company of those we love so dearly.

All the thanks and love in the world, Neil Helen, Erin and Shauna ❤️