John Barakat

I’m taking part in CEO Dare to Cure 2026 in support of Children’s Cancer Institute.

We all know someone whose life has been touched by cancer. Now imagine hearing the words no parent ever wants to hear: "Your child has cancer."

For my little cousin Vincent's parents, those words were no longer just words—they became a heartbreaking reality

Following what seemed like an ordinary accident during a soccer game, Vincent was hit in the stomach by a ball. That incident led to further investigations, and on 17 December 2025, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 nephroblastoma (Wilms tumour). The tumour, measuring 15 cm × 11 cm, had originated in his right kidney and had already spread to his lungs and liver.

Since his diagnosis, Vincent has endured an extraordinary journey. He has undergone 11 cycles of chemotherapy, involving multiple medications, 13 rounds of radiation therapy, and major surgery to remove his right kidney and parts of his liver. Today, we are incredibly grateful to have reached the end of his chemotherapy treatment, and in May 2026, Vincent proudly rang the bell to mark the completion of his radiation therapy.

Despite everything he has faced, Vincent has remained the happy and courageous little boy we all know and love. His strength, resilience, and smile have inspired everyone around him.

Sadly, Vincent's story is not unique. This year, more than 1,000 Australian families will hear the devastating words, "Your child has cancer." Childhood cancer remains the leading disease-related cause of death for children in Australia, claiming the lives of three children and adolescents every week.

Together, we can help change that story.

This year, I'm dedicating my efforts in the CEO Dare to Cure Fitness Challenge to my little cousin, Vincent.  Please support this great cause.

Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to a future where no family loses a child to cancer.

Please donate today and help us create a brighter future for children facing cancer.

 Thanks for your support, you are making a real difference.