News that stage four breast cancer sufferer and Abermain mum Amanda Barrass will still sing the national anthem at State of Origin, despite the event being moved interstate, has certainly restored my faith in humanity.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In fact the story just keeps getting better and better.
Since our reporter Krystal Sellars broke the story last week, the 37-year-old mum of two has been overwhelmed with the support from Hunter locals keen to make her experience one that both Amanda and her young family can cherish.
Newcastle's MMM Radio breakfast announcers Tanya and Steve will deck Amanda out with a new outfit, she will also receive a NSW Blues Jersey and once in Brisbane her hair and make-up will also be taken care of courtesy of local businesses.
It has been Amanda's lifelong dream to sing the national anthem at State of Origin, but on Saturday night she started to lose hope when she learned the event was being moved from Newcastle to Brisbane.
"I had a nervous Saturday night. My stomach sank," she said.
But by Sunday, with her travel declaration approved, she was planning on driving to the Gold Coast with her family to fulfill the dream.
"It would have been beautiful to do it in Newcastle, but I am thankful no matter what."
Donna Sharpe
Editor