For My Dad, For Us All: 5 Years of Standing Side by Side
There are moments in life that change everything. For my family, one of those moments came when my Dad, Guy, was diagnosed with leukaemia.
It was the kind of news that silences a room. Not because we didn’t want to speak—but because we didn’t know where to begin. In the days that followed, we found ourselves navigating a whole new world: hospitals, specialists, test results, treatment plans. We had to learn fast—and more than anything, we had to lean on each other.
Dad has always been strong. Quietly so. The kind of strength that doesn’t ask for attention. The kind that holds a family together through storms, grief, and everyday life. Even now, on oral chemotherapy, he faces each day with grit and grace. He jokes. He listens. He teaches us, in his own way, what resilience really looks like.
But the truth is, illness doesn’t just live in the body—it lives in the hearts of those who love. Watching someone you love go through it… it’s a different kind of ache. One that leaves you feeling both helpless and fiercely determined to do something. Anything.
That’s where this journey of fundraising began.
Five years ago, my dear friend Nivek Espig said something I’ll never forget:
“We can’t take this away, but we can stand with you.”
And she did. Not just in words—but in action. Year after year, Nivek has thrown her energy, her passion, and her sparkle into raising funds for the Leukaemia Foundation. This year marks the fifth time she’s organised a fundraiser—and this one is in honour of my Dad.
We’ve set a goal to raise as money as possible. But this isn’t just about money—it’s about hope, visibility, and solidarity. The funds raised go towards vital research, accommodation, counselling, and care for people facing blood cancer. People like my Dad. Families like ours.
We’re not doing this because it’s easy. We’re doing it because it matters.
So I’m asking—if you’re reading this and you can donate, please do. If you can show up, we’d love to see you. If all you can do is share the link, even that makes a difference.
🩵 DONATE HERE: https://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/fundraisers/nivekespig/2025
🎉 FUNDRAISING EVENT DETAILS:
📍 The Wickham Hotel, Brisbane
🕡 Doors open 6:30PM
🎟️ $5 entry
🎤 Hosted by the dazzling Keveena Kunt
💃🏽 A night full of laughter, community, and purpose
To Nivek—thank you. For every late night, every message, every moment you’ve carried this with us. To everyone who’s ever said a prayer, offered a meal, checked in on my family—you are part of our story.
And to my Dad: this one’s for you. You’ve shown me what love really looks like.