Life can change in an instant, and for Doron, what began as an exciting overseas adventure soon turned into an unexpected health battle. Instead of letting fear define him, Doron has faced brain cancer with remarkable strength, positivity, and determination.
Here, Doron shares his journey in his own words:
After a successful and eye-opening trip to the United States in March 2023, I returned home filled with positive memories and amazing experiences—but also with persistent daily headaches. Nine days later, I had my first seizure. It was the beginning of a journey I never expected.
I spent the next 20 days in hospital, where doctors discovered and successfully removed a Grade 4 glioblastoma, a particularly aggressive form of brain tumour. Since then, I’ve undergone two rounds of radiotherapy, several rounds of oral chemotherapy, as well as fortnightly Avastan infusions.
Despite the challenges, I am hugely positive and optimistic, grateful for every day and for the people I love. I have stopped sweating the small stuff, I have raised thousands of dollars for brain cancer research, I have made new connections and friendships with others in my situation, I ran my first half marathon in May, and I started an acting course.
I’m endlessly thankful for the care and dedication of my medical team, including the amazing nurses and doctors who look after me, and for the love and support of my friends and family—especially my wonderful mum, who has been by my side through it all.
Stories like Doron’s are at the heart of why we do what we do. At the Mark Hughes Foundation, we are committed to funding research, supporting patients and driving hope—so that one day, families like Doron’s will face a future free from brain cancer.
