Alison Green

At the age of 72, Alison’s beloved mother, Jean, was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. “That was a really exceptionally devastating loss for me. I was 33, and I'm a doctor, and I felt such a profound sense of despair when she was diagnosed with primary brain cancer. It's a disease where the prognosis essentially hasn't changed for decades. When you mention brain cancer, you can see it in the faces of other doctors – they just get this look.” 

Jean, who had previously survived a breast cancer and melanoma diagnosis, approached this new challenge with remarkable resilience. However, the progression of the disease proved relentless, and within months, it took her ability to communicate - a cruel irony given her passion for writing letters and emails to friends around the world. “It was an exceptionally devastating loss. My children were born a couple of years after she died, and she would have been so excited to have twins as grandchildren,” Alison reflects. “She was the glue that kept everyone connected, always knowing what was happening with each of us. When someone like that is gone, you realise just how much they did – and how much you relied on them.” 

In the wake of her mother's passing in 2011, Alison felt compelled to honour Jean’s memory in a meaningful way. She discovered solace in supporting Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF). “I was grieving deeply and felt this ongoing sense of despair, trying to find something proactive to do in her memory,” she explains. “I looked into various options, and ACRF really stood out. I started donating regularly and have continued my support ever since.” 

As part of her commitment, Alison decided to leave a gift in her Will to ACRF in addition to regular donations. “After exploring various giving options, ACRF stood out – they seemed so dedicated to putting each dollar to the best possible use. After being a monthly giver for a short time, I decided to include ACRF in my Will”. 

Through her ongoing support, Alison not only honours her mother’s memory but also contributes to vital research that will help ensure future generations have access to the life-saving treatments they need. Leaving a legacy gift is more than a charitable act; it's shaping a cancer-free future.