The saddest of goodbyes to a courageous young man

Jye Ferrier 23 June 2003 – 29 April 2022Today, 18 year old Jye Ferrier was farewelled by his loving family and friends at a truly beautiful service on the Gold Coast.

We awoke to the tragic news early last Friday, that this courageous young man loved by all, had lost his life to osteosarcoma, and the sun immediately disappeared behind a cloud.

The courage and determination Jye showed throughout what can only be described as an intensely cruel treatment process, defies words.  Those closest to Jye today remembered the kind, sweet, considerate, selfless young man whose smile, despite his plight in life, continued to light up a room.

Jye always put the needs of others first, despite the pain and sheer angst that came his way during treatment.

Jye made his mark on the world in such a significant way, and he will always be etched in the memory of those whose lives have been deeply touched by his special presence.

Jye’s family Lisa, Dean, Tristan and Byron left Jye in no doubt as to how much he was loved.  It is difficult to imagine a family more cohesive, attentive and supportive. Jye was always wrapped in the pure love of this remarkable family.

Sometimes there are simply no words other than to send our love, strength and our heartfelt condolences to  Lisa, Dean, Tristan, Byron, Jye’s extended family and his very special group of young friends who have spent the past week contemplating life without him.

Forever young…

Official opening of the YouCan Centre, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse

A truly memorable event this morning at the unveiling of the  Sony Foundation You Can Centre at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse

This state of the art centre will provide first class apartment style accommodation at no cost for families of the 15-25 year olds (Adolescent Young Adults AYA’s) living with a cancer diagnosis, who are forced to travel to facilitate treatment.

It is estimated upwards of 25% of this group will be sarcoma patients.

The omnipresent and commanding image of Chris O’Brien watched over proceedings which began with the poignant and magnificently chosen words of Gail O’Brien AM, followed by a flawless speech by Sony Foundation CEO, Sophie Ryan; the Premier of NSW Dominic Perrottet and the Hon Brad Hazzard both spoke without hint of an impending election, but instead from the heart; while host Peter Overton, forever the consummate professional, shared his deeply personal connection with this critical project.

The star of the event however was nineteen year old osteosarcoma survivor Elliot Prasad who delivered the heartfelt words that could only come from those who have walked this road. Elliot held the room in the palm of his hand – sharing his experience whilst undergoing treatment at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse and articulating the importance of the You Can Centre to those walking this road behind him.

Our heartiest congratulations to all involved.

An enormous step forward for those young people living with a cancer diagnosis.