Michael Warren

Journalist

Gemma

The stories that always impact me the most are those about local people. Stories about those who have faced hard times and are looking to bounce back.

Those who have overcome challenges amidst ongoing adversity.

With that said my heart broke when I did a story on young Port Douglas teenager Gemma Kilpatrick who was diagnosed with stage 3 Hodgkin’s lymphoma cancer in late August.

Life is not fair. It’s never been fair. Listening to her mother, Shannon, speak about her daughter and how much of a beautiful person she is had a really lasting impact on me.

The courage she continues to show amid this huge battle is just inspiring.

Keep fighting Gem we’re right behind you.

Toyah

I can remember vividly shaking when I hit post on a story relating to Toyah’s case in late November.

To finally have an arrest after four painful long years, was simply outstanding. Let’s hope things move to the point the alleged offender is extradited back to FNQ and soon after faces the court system.