"Ovarian Cancer May Be a Silent Killer, But I Won’t Be Silent"

These powerful words by Trudy Crowley embody the spirit of a woman whose courage and resilience ignited a movement of hope, awareness, and support.
Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2016, Trudy was appalled by the lack of resources available to women facing the same battle. The single brochure handed to her offered information on breast cancer, not ovarian cancer—a glaring oversight that fuelled her determination to make a change.
For Trudy, silence was never an option. She became a fierce advocate, dedicating her time to spreading knowledge, raising funds, and connecting with organisations such as Ovarian Cancer Australia and the Cancer Council. Her tireless efforts reached as far as Parliament, where she pushed for greater awareness and better resources. Before her passing in 2018, Trudy’s relentless dedication inspired the creation of the Foundation that now bears her name—a guiding force for those navigating all cancers.
The establishment of the Trudy Crowley Foundation is itself a story of resilience and determination. It began during a chance meeting between Trudy and Jacquie Camilleri at the Mater Hospital on Trudy’s first day of chemotherapy. The two formed an instant bond, and their friendship would lay the groundwork for something extraordinary.
In late 2017, as her health declined, Trudy confided in Jacquie that she needed to step back from her advocacy work to focus on her family. Jacquie, inspired by her father’s words to “step up,” knew she couldn’t let Trudy’s mission falter. With Trudy’s blessing, the Foundation was born.
Today, the Trudy Crowley Foundation continues Trudy’s legacy of advocacy, education, and support. A dedicated board of volunteers drives the Foundation’s mission, ensuring no woman has to face ovarian cancer alone. Their efforts are supported by a professional team of two nurses and a counsellor, who provide compassionate care and practical guidance to patients and their families.
The Foundation’s work is amplified by the incredible stories of its ambassadors, whose courage and resilience inspire countless others.
Bridgeen Doherty, diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer in 2019, named her cancer “Octavia” and has faced it with unwavering determination. Despite the challenges, Bridgeen uses her journey to bring light to others, proving that even in the darkest moments, hope endures.
For Teharnee Peel, the diagnosis came during pregnancy, when a routine ultrasound revealed a tumour. Chemotherapy while carrying her son was a daunting challenge, yet Teharnee’s story is one of hope, strength, and the profound love of a mother fighting for her future.
Earl Neilsen’s cancer journey began in 2019 with symptoms that escalated into a diagnosis of stage three rectal cancer. His resilience, humour, and sense of purpose have turned his personal battle into a source of strength for others.
The Trudy Crowley Foundation stands as a tribute to Trudy’s vision: a space where no one is just a diagnosis, but a person deserving of dignity, compassion, and understanding.
This commitment is embodied by the Foundation’s three remarkable ambassadors—Bridgeen, Teharnee, and Earl—whose stories of resilience and hope are shared in the following pages.
Their journeys not only reflect the Foundation’s mission but also serve as powerful reminders of the strength found in community and the courage to face life’s toughest battles.
As we step into 2025, the Trudy Crowley Foundation wishes our incredible community a year filled with hope.
“Together, we’ve accomplished so much, and the year ahead promises even greater strides as we work towards our dream of establishing a private care palliative unit—a sanctuary of compassion and support for those who need it most.
“Thank you for being part of our journey; your continued support fuels our mission and makes every milestone possible.”

Trudy Crowley Foundation ambassadors, Bridgeen Doherty, Earl Neilsen and Teharnee Peel show that there are bright moments and laughter to be celebrated during and after cancer

Trudy Crowley: The fearless advocate whose legacy of love, compassion, and determination continues to inspire and support countless lives

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