When Mark was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer, everything changed overnight.

In those critical weeks, as questions, fear, and uncertainty took hold, one thing became painfully clear—there was nowhere to turn. No dedicated support groups. No clear information. No community of people who truly understood what this diagnosis meant. What little information existed was difficult to find, leaving Mark and his family to face one of life’s hardest journeys feeling isolated and alone.

After losing Mark, that silence was impossible to ignore.

Polly made a promise—no one else would have to go through this without support, without answers, and without hope.

In June 2012, that promise became the Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Group Inc. (OCAGI).

What began as one person’s grief turned into a mission to change the experience of oesophageal cancer across Australia. OCAGI created a place where patients, carers, and families could finally find what was missing—trusted information, real support, and a community that understands.

Today, OCAGI is more than a website. It is a lifeline.

A place where people connect in their darkest moments.
A place where stories are shared, and no one feels alone.
A place driving awareness, funding research, and working towards earlier detection and better outcomes.

But there is still so much more to be done.

Oesophageal cancer remains one of the most under-recognised and deadliest cancers in Australia. Too many people are still diagnosed too late. Too many families are still facing the same fear and uncertainty.

Your support helps change that.

Every donation helps us:

• Provide vital support to patients and families

• Raise awareness so more lives can be saved through early detection

• Fund research that brings hope for better treatments and outcomes

Because of Mark, this work began.
Because of you, it continues.