For his 10th birthday, Hamish decided he didn’t want presents – he wanted to make a difference.
Inspired by his uncle Liam O’Brien, who created The Life-saving List after being diagnosed with a rare form of blood cancer, Hamish asked friends and family to donate to cancer research at Icon Cancer Foundation instead of giving gifts.

Hamish celebrating his 10th birthday, having asked for donations to support cancer research instead of gifts.
Wanting to make his own contribution, Hamish dedicated his birthday to something bigger than himself, raising an incredible $600 for cancer research.
When asked what inspired his act of kindness, Hamish said, “I know the rough things families have to go through. My uncle Liam passed way from cancer, and I don’t want that happening to other people.”
Hamish is proudly carrying on his uncle’s legacy – showing that compassion and generosity are not defined by age.
About the Life-saving List
While Liam was undergoing treatment at Icon Cancer Centre, he and wife Josephine created The Life-saving List, a campaign that captured national attention and drove urgent reform of Australia’s stem cell registry. The campaign sparked record donor registrations and has given hope to countless families across the country.
This July, marking a year since his passing, The Life-saving List hosted a gala in Liam’s memory, raising $265,000 for Icon Cancer Foundation. These funds will support research into blood cancers and cellular therapy, the next step in offering newer, safer and more effective treatments for people like Liam.

If Hamish’s story has inspired you, you can join in and make a difference by leaving a donation to Icon Cancer Foundation.
Every contribution helps fund vital cancer research and clinical trials, giving hope to families affected by cancer.
