On Saturday, May 4th, a team of 20 dedicated supporters of the Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) embarked on a challenging journey to conquer the Three Peaks of Etheridge Ridge, Mt Carruthers, and the pinnacle, Mt Kosciuszko—Australia’s highest peak. The 22-kilometre trek, completed in a single day, was a demanding physical endeavour set against the backdrop of a stunning alpine landscape.
This remarkable group has raised an astonishing $102,544.50 for the Mark Hughes Foundation, a testament to their commitment and dedication.
Participants had a personal connection to brain cancer, either through personal experiences or a deep desire to support the foundation’s mission to find a cure for this devastating disease.
Among the trekkers was Team Reidy—Cathy, Laura, Maddy, and Bec—who undertook the challenge in honour of their husband, father, and uncle, Geoff, who passed away in 2022 after a five year battle with brain cancer.
Ashlee and Matt, along with Jonathan and Jason, trekked in memory of their beloved mother, Trudy, who succumbed to brain cancer in 2019. This family alone has raised over $17,000 for this trek, adding to their ongoing contributions to MHF since Trudy’s diagnosis.
Sarah walked with her 14-year-old son, Lukas, in memory of Sarah’s mother, Jackie, who was diagnosed in 2016 and lost her battle just 10 months later. Jackie was the first brain cancer patient to donate her entire brain to research through the MHF Biobank, a courageous and generous act that fuels hope for a cure.
Lauma, diagnosed with brain cancer in 2021 and given only a 1% chance of survival, joined the adventure with her daughter, Maija, providing an inspirational presence on the trek.
Kath, who lost her husband Carl in 2022, participated alongside her friend Nikki, who also experienced the tragedy of brain cancer, losing her father-in-law, David.
Fiona, who lost her brother Stuart in 2020 at just 42 years old, took on the Three Peaks to honour his memory.
Vicki and Michele together raised over $10,000 for MHF on this trek. Michele’s 4 year old granddaughter recently lost her preschool friend Flo to DIPG, underscoring the urgent need for research.
Gregory supported his friend through the loss of his father to brain cancer and has attended several of the annual MHF Balls, showing unwavering support.
Emma and Paul trekked in memory of Emma’s mother, Kathie, who passed away in 2022 after a brief three-month battle with brain cancer.
The collective efforts and determination of these individuals not only raised significant funds but also highlighted the profound impact of brain cancer on families and the enduring hope for a cure. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the trekkers, the fabulous team from Peak Learning through Inspired Adventures. Matt, Dave, Grace, Kat & Aiden, our sponsors Epic Glass Fencing and MJS Solar and the generous donors for making this incredible achievement possible
