For more than a decade, Tere Sheehan has been one of the most familiar faces in Ballina’s fundraising scene. Since arriving in town in 2013 to manage the Cherry Street Bowling Club, he has given his time, energy, and heart to countless local causes.
Now, the man who has helped so many finds himself on the other side of a community fundraiser — this time for his wife, Jane, as she faces an intense fight against brain tumours.
From Operation to Setback
In July, Jane visited her GP thinking she had vertigo, only to receive a devastating diagnosis: an aggressive brain tumour.
From Ballina Hospital, she was taken to Lismore Base before being transferred to the Gold Coast University Hospital, where she underwent an eight-hour operation.
The procedure was deemed successful, but just two days later she suffered a fall in the hospital shower. Further tests revealed more tumours.
Jane now faces many months of complex treatment, including multiple rounds of high-dose chemotherapy, stem cell collection, and a transplant.
“It’s going to be a tough six months for us,” Tere said. “But the love and support we’ve received from family, friends, and the community will help us get through it.”
A Reluctant Fundraising Recipient
Local fundraising stalwart Mark Ross has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help the Sheehan family.
“Tere has been there for every local fundraiser. Whenever I’ve reached out for help, he never hesitates,” Mark said.
“The hours he put in after the 2022 flood were just phenomenal – and Jane was always been his rock, right there behind him.”
While the campaign is there for those who can contribute financially, Tere says messages of encouragement mean just as much.
“I’m not someone who’s comfortable asking for help,” he said.
“What I’d really like is for people to send Jane kind messages. That love and support will help her keep fighting.
‘We live in such a beautiful community, and knowing people are in her corner will give her strength.”
Backed by Work and Family
Tere says Cherry Street Sports Group has been unwavering in its support, giving him the flexibility he needs to ensure Jane gets the constant care she requires.
The couple’s adult daughter, Kait, has also stepped up – helping with the children and household while recovering from her own series of surgeries. The Sheehans have two younger children, Ethan and Ella, aged 14 and 13, as well as two older children and four grandchildren (main photo).
How to Help
For those wishing to contribute, donations can be made via the GoFundMe page organised by Mark Ross. For others, Tere says heartfelt words are just as valuable.
“Jane’s got a fight ahead of her,” he said. “But with this community behind us, we’ll get through it.”
Donate here: gofundme.com/f/donate-to-help-the-sheehans
Messages of Support can also be left in the comments below
Tere, Jane and Family. Our thoughts are with you in these coming months of treatment. If you every need anything we may be able to help some how, please ask. Like shopping, cooking or chat.
Tere, Jane, family and friends you are in our ongoing thoughts and prayers. Thanks for alerting our community Mark were hear you.
Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you and family….we have also been through four years of fights n toughness and we know YOU CAN DO THIS ALSO
Love from The Parkinson Whanau in Ballina xxxx
Jane, Tere & family
Our thoughts are with you whilst you fight this battle ahead, the community we live in is strong & caring one
You will be thought of often & surrounded by love & support- community spirit when you need it most- wishing you strength & healing
Jane, Penny, myself and the all the members of Ballina Cherry Street Croquet Club are thinking of you and wish you every strength for your treatment and every wish that you kick this cancers arse. We all look forward to joining you in the after arse kicking party.
Thinking of you all!
Jane,
We are sorry to hear the news about your diagnosis with the tumors.
Your smile tells us that you are incredibly strong person, and we admire your courage to fight this.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
You are not alone, we are all hear to support you, Tere and all your family. ❤️
Jane, Tere and family our thoughts are with you, stay strong.
Dear Jane. Was sad to hear this news. I hope with all the modern medicine, that you can kick this in its backside. My thoughts go with you and your beautiful family. Will look forward to hearing that you tumour free and back home with Tere and family. 💕
Jane, Tere & family…..sending love & prayers from Bathurst….
Stay strong and positive, while keeping your beautiful smile.
Anne, Peter & Laura 🌹💝🙏🏻🌹💝🙏🏻🌹💝🙏🏻
Sending hugs kisses and prayers to your beautiful family x
Dear Jane, Tere and family
You have been in our thoughts and we send our love as you face the battle ahead. You are strong and have wonderful family and a great community behind you. xx
I’m a very, very old friend of your Mum, Gail. She used to give me cigarettes when I was about 15 years old! She was my best friend! I used to babysit you and your brothers when your parents went out. I’m so sorry to hear about Jane and hope all the treatments work for her. Prayers for all the family.