A public advocate for breast cancer awareness, Dr Margaret Gardiner lost her personal battle with the disease last Friday.
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Tributes poured in on Monday for the Illawarra GP, who is being remembered for her ‘’incredible spirit’’.
Diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2000, Dr Gardiner drew strength from her role as the Illawarra ambassador for the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF).
The GP was also the driving force behind the establishment of Wollongong’s Mother’s Day Classic, which raises funds for research into the treatment, detection and prevention of breast cancer.
In a joint statement Dr Gardiner’s sons Gerald, Edward and Dominic Riordan remembered a loving mother who was a role model to so many others.
“Mum was an inspirational woman who had a gift for making the lives of those around her more special, more meaningful, and much more pink,’’ they wrote. “She was a dedicated mother, and her strength and love will remain with us forever.’’
In 2015, Dr Gardiner told the Mercury she’d been shattered after she was diagnosed with secondary cancer, in her lung and bones, in 2011. However she said at the time ‘’knowing that research is advancing every day really gives you the courage to go on’’.
Her sons added: “Mum fought breast cancer in private, but also in public. She was a role model for many women who, like her, refuse to let breast cancer dictate their lives.
“She was relentless in her battle to ensure that one day nobody is forced to face cancer, and she was passionate in her belief that every cent donated to research brings us a step closer to a cure.’’
Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery acknowledged Dr Gardiner’s ‘’tireless contribution’’ to the region, through her commitment to help find a cure.
“I had the great honour of witnessing the love and courage she gave to others facing this insidious disease at many of her fundraising events,’’ he said. ‘’She was an inspirational woman who fought long and bravely.’’
Illawarra Federal MPs, Sharon Bird and Stephen Jones, also expressed sadness at Dr Gardiner’s passing.
‘’She has been instrumental at raising funds for breast cancer research while also fighting her own battle against the disease and brought together business, sporting and community representatives to raise much needed research funds,’’ Ms Bird said.
Mr Jones added: ‘’In the face of incredible adversity, Margaret has been a pillar of our community and a tremendous source of strength and inspiration for our region.’’
NSW Cancer Council southern region community engagement manager Grant Plecas has campaigned alongside Dr Gardiner since 2001, and will continue her legacy.
‘’I’ll work to ensure this year’s Mother’s Day Classic is as special as possible, for her and her family,’’ he said. ''We want to make it the biggest, and best, event yet to continue the good work she started.''
Mr Plecas said despite her long illness, he'd been shocked, and deeply saddened, by the news last Friday.
‘’Margaret was a doctor, she was prepared and did understand where she was on her journey. But she didn’t focus on her situation; she protected those close to her to make sure they were the focus of her love and compassion.’
Dr Gardiner’s sons invited people to join them in ‘’celebrating mum’s incredible spirit’’ at a service at the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Sydney, on March 9 at 11am.
Those wishing to donate in memory of Dr Margaret Gardiner to the NBCF can click here.