We are beyond proud to celebrate our Legacy Ambassador, Emily Cooke, who has been selected to compete at both the Little Athletics National Championships (12–13 April) and the Australian Athletics Junior Championships (15–20 April).
Emily will represent Victoria at the Little Athletics National Championships, competing in the 100m, 200m, discus and shot put, before backing it up just days later at the Australian Athletics Junior Championships as part of the Victorian Athletics Team in the 100m, long jump, discus and shot put.
An extraordinary achievement, and one that makes her journey to this moment even more powerful.
A journey defined by courage
In 2018, at just five years old, Emily was diagnosed with a low-grade glioma (ganglioglioma) located in her brainstem, following 18 months of gradual changes to her swallowing, balance, coordination and speech.
After an initial period of “watch and wait,” Emily began 52 weeks of chemotherapy in 2020. During this time, she accessed music therapy through the Robert Connor Dawes Foundation, an experience that brought joy, creativity and connection in the midst of treatment.
In 2022, Emily faced tumour progression and underwent a posterior craniotomy, followed by another 12 months of chemotherapy. Then in 2023, just six months after completing treatment, further tumour-related nerve impairment led to a second craniotomy.
In November 2023, Emily was granted compassionate access to the targeted therapy Trametinib, which she continues on today.
Finding her strength through sport
Through everything, Emily has continued to show incredible resilience and determination. She has discovered a love of swimming and athletics, competing with para classifications and achieving remarkable success.
She currently holds the Victorian 12-year-old S9 backstroke record, a testament to her strength and spirit.
And now, she’s taking that same determination onto the national stage.
More than an athlete
Emily has also been fortunate to access RCD’s music therapy program for a second time, and she loves working with her singing teacher—another beautiful example of how creativity and care play a vital role in recovery and wellbeing.
Alongside her mum Allison, Emily is a passionate advocate for the brain cancer community, helping raise awareness and push for better outcomes for young people facing this devastating disease.
Cheering you on, Emily 💛
Emily’s journey is one of resilience, courage and unwavering determination. From hospital rooms to the starting line, she continues to inspire everyone around her.
We can’t wait to cheer her on as she represents Victoria on the national stage.
Go Emily, we’re all behind you.
