Danielle McGrath's Fearless Fight! #teammcgrath44

In July 2021, at just 31 years young, our beautiful friend/niece/aunt/daughter/mother/wife, Danielle McGrath, was unexpectedly diagnosed with Grade 4 Glioblastoma (brain cancer). After this shocking discovery, she had her first tumour removed. The initial surgery went really well as she followed up with 6 weeks of radiation while taking chemotherapy. This was then followed by an additional 6 months of oral chemo alone. Unfortunately, with increasing headaches in June of this year, a new tumour was discovered. Immediately, her second brain surgery was scheduled. While that surgery was successful in removing the majority of the tumour and reducing pressure, her recent follow up scans now indicate newly discovered tumour growth.

Danielle’s team of specialists and oncologists in St. John’s, NL, say that her best fighting chance is to participate in a clinical Phase II trial for Glioblastoma at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. In fact, she just returned from the preliminary meeting with their medical team in Toronto on Wednesday, June 22, as they prepare for their next plan of action. Without this potentially life extending treatment, time is not on their side, so we graciously ask that you join us in making her fight OUR collective fight. Danielle, who is always so positive and strong, has everything to live for and remains our fearless warrior! She lives her young life with courage, strength, determination, hope, and her amazing attitude has been so inspirational to everyone around her. Despite this unimaginable diagnosis, Danielle and her husband, Shayne, continue to make every moment count and in her words, she is “living her best life”! Following her first brain surgery last July, she had a surprise engagement and dream wedding with Shayne (planned in just 3 weeks), went on a honeymoon on the other side of the country, and two skidoo trips in Newfoundland! She is an incredible mother and there couldn’t be a better role model for her three year old daughter, Wynter. She pushes herself to work out, spends time with family and friends, plays golf and hockey, and even played on her softball team just days after her second brain surgery! It is also incredibly admirable and brave that she continues to generate awareness around Glioblastoma, recently raising over $7,000 for the Brain Tumour Walk. She fundraised at her wedding for the cause, and openly shares her story. She has organized a yearly skidoo trip to create greater awareness, with her skidoo wrapped in the infamous gray ribbon, along with her name and hockey number (#44). She is determined in her own fight, but is also doing whatever she can to support and find a cure for everyone fighting Glioblastoma alongside her.

Packing up your life at home as you know it (in a WEEK), to venture into the unknown as you relocate for treatment is no easy feat. As close friends and family, the last thing we want them doing as they gear up for the fight of their life, is the immediate financial stress that presents itself with such a huge move. Shayne has stepped away from his career at this time to support his beautiful wife and is availing of Compassionate Care Leave, while Danielle is on Long Term Disability. In addition to figuring out the logistics of all that this entails, they will have the added pressure of moving expenses, accommodations, transportation, not to mention unforeseen bills that may come their way. Danielle wishes that beautiful little Wynter will be able to commute between Newfoundland and Toronto as her mommy undergoes treatment and that she can see her as much as possible! There will also be expenses at home in the midst of the move. Right now is not the time for them to have to make huge financial decisions. There is more than enough on their plate to worry about. The generosity of any donations will allow them to focus their energy and strength on Danielle’s medical care. We are saddened that their large support team is based mainly here in Newfoundland, but if we can do anything to alleviate any financial strain, along with our prayers, then we are here and will show up!

Danielle has been fearlessly fighting since Day 1, never once giving in, so let’s give her every opportunity to continue living her best life! In the words of Wayne Gretzky, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” She’s giving it her best shot; let’s give her ours!

Thank you in advance for your prayers, kindness and support.

The McGrath and Collins Family,

#teammcgrath

#teammcgrath44