“I was able to show Mum that people were donating in honour of her – to show her how truly loved and appreciated she was before she passed. I don’t think I’ve ever seen her more bewildered or touched. She didn’t think she had that much of an impact. But she did. We all do.”
– Megan McKinnon
When Megan’s mother Sharon was diagnosed with stomach cancer, life changed in an instant. Sharon had always been the heart of the family, the person everyone turned to for comfort, guidance and reassurance. The news of her diagnosis was shocking, and each new update brought further heartbreak. The disease spread to Sharon’s stomach, then her bowel. Megan and Sharon leaned on each other for strength for what lay ahead.
Sharon sadly passed away in August 2025. Megan remembers her as a woman of warmth, humour and deep kindness; a person who lifted those around her. The memories Megan cherishes the most are the small, everyday moments: holding hands, long embraces, the familiar scent of her perfume and the way she showered her grandchildren with affection.
Before her mum’s passing, Megan chose to establish an In Memory fundraiser in honour of Sharon’s life to support GI Cancer Trials. Her decision was driven by the frustration and heartbreak of facing a disease where treatment options were so limited. She wanted to ensure that other families might one day have more choice and more time.
Creating the In Memory fundraiser also provided an unexpected gift. With it, Megan was able to show her mother the messages and donations made in her honour. Sharon was incredibly moved and surprised by the outpouring of generosity.
Supporting research in someone’s memory can transform grief into something purposeful. It’s a powerful way to honour a loved one’s life and help create hope for others facing the same diagnosis.