DUBLIN-BORN AUSSIE Rules legend Jim Stynes says he has been given ‘another crack’ in his battle with cancer.
The Melbourne Demons man was told in recent days that no more could be done to help him.
But, when surgeons rang to insist that the previously ‘inoperable’ tumour on his brain could now be removed, he and his wife cancelled the planned farewell party they’d organised for family and friends.
Stynes’ wife, Sam, told the Herald Sun: “It was looking grim and we did put some plans in place,” she said.
“Jim wanted to spend time with those he loved most, so we planned a barbecue with close family and friends. But once we got the phone call from the doctor we sent out the message and it was probably the best cancellation anybody invited could have received.”
Stynes was the first and only Irishman to win the AFL’s prestigious Brownlow Medal. He is president of Melbourne – though he’s taken a step back from his day-to-day duties.
A year ago, his battle for his health was documented in a Australian TV film, Every Heart Beats True:
YouTube credit: thereachfoundation
I hope it goes well for him. A true star of a man
http://www.adrianrussell.net/2010/10/01/big-jim-proving-a-true-hero%E2%80%99s-heart-still-beats-true/ I remember reading this last year. He’s an inspiration to everyone
Just shows how small some of our worries and complaints are here, Jim Stynes is nothing short of inspirational,
never give up attitude and to touch and inspire thousands on this incredible tough journey. An absolute legend…
ive followed the melbourne football club all my life, and seen you around town many times, and hope to see you around for a long long time yet