Life is tough, but Catherine is tougher!

Hi everyone, my name is Stef, and about a month ago, my best friend Tash shared with me some heartbreaking news about her mum.

If you are hearing this for the first time, I am sorry to break the news in this way.

Tash’s mum, Marie Catherine Kronfeld (Kate), has been diagnosed with a type of terminal brain cancer called Glioblastoma (GBM).

GBM is a malignant brain tumor among adults. It is very aggressive, which means it can grow fast and spread quickly.

Unfortunately, Catherine has already been significantly affected; she has lost her ability to walk, has frequent seizures, and has been hospitalized for over a month.

Devastatingly there is no cure for GBM; however, there are treatments to help ease symptoms.

Considering the circumstances, Catherine is keeping a positive mindset, staying strong and is thankful for all the love being sent her way.

The next step in this challenging process will be to begin chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Again, unfortunately, there is no cure for GBM, but the goal will be to slow and control tumor growth and help Catherine live as comfortably as possible so she can spend as much time with her kids, family and friends as possible.

If you were to ask anyone who has ever been in the presence of Catherine, they would tell you she is one of those people you always feel good around, like sunshine entering the room.

She has the kindest heart and a calming presence, her smile is contagious, and her love for her family and friends is unwavering.

She is always there for anyone in need; no matter what time or what she has going on in her own life, she will be there in a heartbeat. Even during this challenging time, Catherine’s primary goal is to ensure her kids, family, and everyone around her are ok.

She wants everyone to be strong, positive and keep smiling.

This news has come as a complete shock to all of us.

Her children are absolutely devasted. Tash has stopped working so she can visit daily, attend meetings with the medical professionals, and spend as much time as she can helping her mum through this. Her son David is working to financially support his sister and mum and visiting as often as possible.

I am raising money to help pay for ongoing care and hospice costs for Catherine, which is unfortunately not for long, but as you can understand, every moment is precious.

My goal with this fundraiser is to ease some of the financial stresses on Catherine and her children so they can focus on being present and making the most of every second together. We also need to, unfortunately, start thinking about funeral plans.

On top of this, many of Catherine's family live internationally, and I would love to help them get over to Sydney to spend some precious time together as a family.

We would be forever grateful for any contribution, whether big or small. Even just thoughts and prayers will go a long way and help us all to stay positive.

Thank you to everyone who has helped already.

While there is no cure, there is so much love, and we know we will all get through this challenging time together.

If anyone is struggling, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, who will provide a safe space to discuss your needs, worries or concerns.