by Angelena Bonet
“We always tried to find the magic in the tragic,” Angelena shared.
Shane was a supporter of the Mark Hughes Foundation long before brain cancer became part of his story. Each year, he proudly purchased beanies for himself and his best friend Angelena, a small gesture that reflected his big heart and quiet commitment to helping others.
A Qantas engineer for over 30 years, Shane was a man of precision, loyalty, and strength. Outside of work, he was a passionate runner who travelled the world to take part in the World Airline Road Race (WARR), never missing a chance to lace up his shoes and compete with determination and joy. A lifelong supporter of the St George Illawarra Dragons, Shane followed his team with unwavering devotion. His love for the game matched only by his love for life.
In March 2023, Shane’s life changed when he was diagnosed with Grade 4 Glioblastoma. Over the next two years, he faced five brain surgeries, radiation, chemotherapy, seizures, hospital stays, and long stints in rehabilitation. But through it all, Shane remained positive, strong, and quietly heroic, inspiring everyone around him.
By his side through every step was his best friend Angelena. They had lived together for a decade and when Shane became ill, she promised to care for him no matter what, which she did. Together, they met the heartbreak with deep love and courage, finding moments of joy wherever they could. “We always tried to find the magic in the tragic,” Angelena shared.
Shane passed away in 2024, but his legacy of kindness, bravery, and compassion lives on. He was truly one of the good ones. The kind of person who made life better simply by being in it. His story is now part of ours, and we’re proud to honour him as part of the MHF community.
To Angelena — thank you for sharing Shane’s story with us. Your care and devotion are a powerful reminder of what love looks like in its most selfless form.
