Ted’s Story
The Marchmont family received news no family ever wants to hear. Their bright, energetic five-year-old son, Ted, was diagnosed with medulloblastoma – a fast-growing brain tumour that occurs in the cerebellum and is one of the most common malignant brain tumours in children. This devastating diagnosis came just as Ted, a loving older brother to his two younger brothers (ages 3 and 2), was excitedly preparing to start school in 2025. In December 2024, Ted underwent surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible, and then faced the challenges of rehabilitation.
After hearing about Ted’s story, Robert Connor Dawes Foundation CEO & Founder, Liz Dawes put Ted’s parents Beth and Rob in touch with key Australian researchers and clinicians to help navigate best options for Ted.
After speaking to multiple experts, Ted’s parents agreed that proton radiation therapy was best form of care for medulloblastoma after brain surgery.
With Australia’s proton therapy machine still not operational and the MTOP (medical treatment overseas program) process too slow, his family faced a desperate race against time. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the community, Ted was able to travel to Florida for life-saving proton treatment. He’s nearing the end of his 30 sessions and, despite the challenges, his resilience shines through.
Ted’s chemotherapy will begin in mid- April back in Newcastle. His family know this will bring some challenges with living 90 minutes from the hospital, but it will be much easier to manage than being over 2,000 miles away.
The family is now advocating for improved access to proton therapy and a streamlined MTOP process so other Australian families don’t face the same hurdles. We wanted to share Ted’s story to help raise awareness, and to make sure other Australian kids with brain cancer are offered the best treatment possible.
