Madison Callander, the daughter of the late Matt Callander who passed away from brain cancer in 2017, shares her story and the incredible achievement her father initiated in the NRL. While rugby league thrives on rivalries, this weekend the focus shifts to something extraordinary – the Beanie for Brain Cancer Round.
In 2023, the campaign will come full circle as the Cronulla Sharks face off against the St George Illawarra Dragons, marking the place where it all began and involving Dad’s own club and their rival. Madison reflects on her father’s diagnosis of stage four glioblastoma, a particularly aggressive form of cancer with no known cure. Against the odds, they were given 18 months together, during which an unforgettable moment occurred.
On a chilly Thursday night in May 2017, surrounded by friends and family, Shark Park was illuminated by a sea of beanies. The kids ran out with Paul Gallen, the beanies sold out, and, after two decades behind the camera, Dad finally found himself in front of it. His collaboration with the Mark Hughes Foundation, the National Rugby League, and Channel Nine to establish the Beanie for Brain Cancer Round was undoubtedly one of his greatest achievements.
Dad admired Mark and Kiralee Hughes for their dedication to the Foundation and for the people who supported their cause. They were genuine, passionate individuals driving a remarkable idea. The scenes at Cronulla that night will forever be etched in Madison’s memory, especially the look of realization on her father’s face as he grasped the immense impact they had made. The weekend alone saw 100,000 beanies sold and $1.75 million raised for the Mark Hughes Foundation.
Sadly, that 2017 Round was the only one Madison’s father was able to experience. Brain cancer statistics are disheartening, with one person being diagnosed every five hours and only two in 10 individuals surviving for at least five years. Brain cancer also claims more lives under 40 than any other cancer, yet it receives less than 5% of government funding. This sobering reality is why Madison and her team are here, driven to make a difference.
Since its inception, the Beanie for Brain Cancer Round has sold over 900,000 beanies and raised over $20 million. The support for this cause has grown stronger each year, showcasing the power of unity and the incredible individuals involved. Rugby league has a unique ability to bring people together, transcending rivalries to support a common goal.
Recently, Madison had the chance to dine with her father’s closest friends, where his absence was acutely felt. However, instead of sadness, she felt proud to be his daughter, sitting among his mates and continuing his legacy by working alongside his former colleagues. The strength she felt in that moment was unparalleled.
This weekend marks another significant moment as the Sharks and Dragons set aside their on-field rivalry to unite in support of the Beanie for Brain Cancer Round. While the game is important, the rugby league community’s focus will be on selling beanies, raising funds, and shedding light on brain cancer. Through this event, mateship prevails, demonstrating the simplicity and power of friends helping friends.
Join the Beanie for Brain Cancer Round by purchasing a beanie and supporting the Mark Hughes Foundation. Together, we can make a difference.
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Hasibur Rahaman is a passionate sports journalist. He covers everything from cricket to field hockey, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis of sporting events, both within India and on the international stage.
