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