Mother in remission after cancer battle inspires Illawarra Relay for Life
Jono Saba's mother Norma is in remission from colon cancer. The family supports Cancer Council's Relay for Life as ambassador.
In 2019, Jono Saba was running four venues and opening his restaurant. That same year, his mother Norma was diagnosed with colon cancer.
The cancer had spread through her body. Norma had previously fought thyroid cancer 11 years earlier.
Jono's father George had also battled cancer. Jono himself had dangerous skin cancers removed in 2019.
Norma is now in remission. However, a recent large growth in her wrist required surgery.
The Cancer Council supported the family during Norma's second battle. They helped with hospital transport, treatment support, and daily care.
They provided companionship while she was isolated in hospital during COVID restrictions. Jono is now ambassador for the Illawarra's 2026 Relay for Life.
This is the Cancer Council's yearly fundraiser. The family has supported it since 2008.
He wants others facing cancer to know support is available. Help exists not just for patients but for loved ones too.
- 40 per cent chance at diagnosis
- Norma's survival odds
- 11 years
- Time between cancers
- 2008
- Family involvement start
Why it mattersThe story shows how families recover from cancer. It shows how fundraising brings real help to people in treatment.
AustraliaThe Illawarra Cancer Council Relay for Life runs annually and offers support services to Australian cancer patients and their families during treatment and recovery.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 d ago
