Help Craig in his fight against brain Cancer

Hi, my name is Christine Griffin and I am fundraising for my beautiful friend Craig Prothero who has been diagnosed with Giant cell glioblastoma (brain cancer).

In early 2021, Craig experienced left-sided facial pain/numbness after a vaccine, which resolved without clear cause. However, in April 2023, the numbness returned proceeding another vaccine, whereby doctors ordered another head MRI which revealed two small lesions in his right temporal lobe. Despite initial positive signs, subsequent MRIs in August shocked everyone— the lesions had rapidly grown into tumours.

Craig underwent surgery on September 7, with one tumour fully removed, but partial resection of the second due to its proximity to his right eye. Post-surgery, the devastating diagnosis came: high-grade astrocytoma, a form of aggressive brain cancer. After further pathology results it is now called a Giant Cell Glioblastoma.

Giant cell glioblastoma is a subtype of glioblastoma multiforme, which is a highly aggressive and malignant brain tumour. The "giant cell" designation refers to the presence of large, multinucleated cells within the tumour. These cells are called giant cells because they are significantly larger than typical cells.

Giant cell glioblastoma shares many characteristics with conventional glioblastomas, such as rapid growth, infiltrative behaviour, and a tendency to recur even after aggressive treatment. However, the presence of giant cells may indicate some differences in the tumour’s biology and behaviour.

Treatment for giant cell glioblastoma typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy which Craig has commenced and has just started his 5th week of treatment.

Now facing a challenging treatment journey, Craig and his family are dealing with the emotional and financial toll. The original plan of 6 weeks of radiation and chemotherapy in Austin shifted with the possibility of local treatment in Shepparton, a tremendous relief for emotional and financial reasons.

Craig has dedicated nearly two decades to the Mooroopna Golf Club, but he's had to take a leave of absence for a minimum of 6 months. Unfortunately, all of Craig's available leave has been exhausted.

As Craig battles this disease, the family is grappling with not only the emotional toll, reduced income, and the uncertain future of their dreams, including their cherished project, The Gap Getaway. The Gap Getaway is dependent on Craig being physically able and can only remain open with the very generous support of family and friends to keep his dream alive.

Craig, the primary breadwinner for his family, is currently unable to drive or work as he undergoes treatment. His beautiful wife, Kirsty, is providing essential daily support as they navigate this challenging journey together.

Craig has completed four of the six-week course of radiation and chemotherapy simultaneously. After a brief break, he will undergo another MRI to assess the effectiveness of the treatment. Craig is set to continue with chemotherapy in the upcoming months as part of his ongoing treatment plan.

Your support can make a significant impact. Funds raised will assist with medical expenses, ongoing treatment, a quality family holiday and providing some financial stability during this challenging time. Your generosity will help Craig and his family focus on what truly matters—beating this formidable opponent.

Join us in rallying behind Craig, his wife Kirsty, and their children. Every contribution, whether big or small, brings them one step closer to overcoming this unexpected battle.

Let's show Craig and his family that they are not alone in this fight. Together, we can make a difference and provide the support they need to face the challenging road ahead.

Thank you for being a part of #TeamCraig.