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Christina Applegate details bout of Covid and Sapovirus amid MS battle

Christina Applegate has detailed her latest health battle amid her multiple sclerosis (MS). Speaking on her MesSy podcast with co-host Jamie-Lynn Sigler, the actress revealed her rough experience after contracting Covid for the first time, which then turned into long Covid, and to make matters worse, she then contracted Sapovirus from contaminated food. Sapoviruses can cause acute gastroenteritis, and the actress candidly shared that she had been wearing diapers in recent weeks because of how often she has had to go to the bathroom. "I finally got the Covies.. someone real close to me dropped the ball and came home with the stuff and it spread all over the house," she began. "I had one day when I had a headache and chills and I thought I was making it through this." "It turned into long covid and it turned into a chest infection and then my heart was doing weird stuff, where it just speeds up... so I was like mother f--ker!" She then continued, saying that after contracting the virus she was "p---ing out of her a** for a few days". "I was so dizzy. I was so sick. I couldn't eat... Someone else's poop went into my mouth and I ate it." The actress recently revealed that she has 30 lesions on her brain from her MS, a condition where the body's own immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the fatty material around the nerves, which can cause a range of symptoms. It is the most common acquired chronic neurological disease affecting young adults, according to MS Australia. Image: Getty

Caring

Teen with Down Syndrome sets new world record

A 19-year-old teen with Down Syndrome has conquered the London Marathon and became a Guinness World Record after just five months of training. Lloyd Martin from Cardiff completed the 42.1 km course across the capital with his mother cheering him on. Guinness World Record has awarded him the certificate for becoming the youngest person in his learning disability category to finish a marathon. "I'm so excited to run London. I love being fit and healthy and I want to make my family and friends proud," the teenager said. Mum Ceri Hooper also told the BBC how proud she was of her son's accomplishment. "In Lloyd's words, it's achieving his dream," she said. "Really anything is possible if you put your mind to it. With a bit of work, you can achieve it." Recalling the experience, the proud mum said: "He ran continuously for 14 miles which is the longest he's ever run before." Although Lloyd walked for a bit after his 14-mile-long streak, the crowd cheered him on every step of the way, and despite the challenge the mother-and-son duo had "a ball". The pair were at a loss for words when he finally crossed the finish line and they both "burst into tears." Lloyd is also now the third Welsh Special Olympics athlete to compete in the London Marathon. Prior to completing the world-famous marathon, Lloyed had completed an astonishing 30 Parkruns. Until last Christmas the teenager had never run further than three miles, but his mother was determined to get him marathon-ready. Ceri, who has taken on the London Marathon four times, created a specialised training regime for her son which included weekly runs. Lloyd managed to secure a spot in the marathon thanks to the help of the Special Olympics GB, where he is also a footballer and a gymnast. Images: Facebook/ Twitter

Caring

Dog care below freezing − how to keep your pet warm and safe from cold weather, road salt and more this winter

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/erik-christian-olstad-1505284">Erik Christian Olstad</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-california-davis-1312">University of California, Davis</a> Time outside with your dog in the spring, summer and fall can be lovely. Visiting your favorite downtown café on a cool spring morning, going to a favorite dog park on a clear summer evening or going on walks along a river when the leaves are changing color are all wonderful when the weather is favorable. But in much of the country, when winter rolls around, previously hospitable conditions can <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-winter-miserable-for-wildlife-108734">quickly turn chilly and dangerous</a> for people and pups alike. Winter brings some unique challenges for dog owners, since dogs still need activity and socialization during colder seasons. Studies have shown that dog owners are almost 50% less likely to walk their dogs <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11113302">when the weather gets cold</a>. Knowing the basics of winter safety is critical to maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your dog. I am an <a href="https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/faculty/erik-olstad">assistant professor</a> at the University of California Davis School of Veterinary Medicine who weathered polar vortexes with my dog while living in Michigan early in my career. While I’ve since moved to sunny California, I’ve seen how quickly frigid temperatures can turn dangerous for pets. <h2>Breed and age differences</h2> Not all dogs have the same abilities to deal with cold weather. A short-coated dog like a Chihuahua is much more susceptible to the dangers of cold weather than a thick-coated husky. When the weather dips below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius), the well-acclimated husky may be comfortable, whereas the Chihuahua would shiver and be at risk of hypothermia. Additionally, if your dog is used to warm weather, but you decide to move to a colder region, the dog will need time to acclimate to that colder weather, even if they have a thick coat. Age also affects cold-weather resilience. Puppies and elderly dogs can’t withstand the chill as well as other dogs, but every dog is unique – each may have individual health conditions or physical attributes that make them more or less resilient to cold weather. <h2>When is my dog too cold?</h2> Pet owners should be able to recognize the symptoms of a dog that is getting too cold. Dogs will shiver, and some may vocalize or whine. Dogs may resist putting their feet down on the cold ground, or burrow, or try to find warmth in their environment when they are uncomfortable. Just like people, <a href="https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/frostbite-in-dogs">dogs can get frostbite</a>. And just like people, the signs can take days to appear, making it hard to assess them in the moment. The most common sites for frostbite in dogs are their ears and the tips of their tails. Some of the initial signs of frostbite are skin discoloring, turning paler than normal, or purple, gray or even black; red, blistered skin; swelling; pain at the site; <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/ulcer">or ulceration</a>. Other <a href="https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/frostbite-in-dogs">serious signs of hypothermia</a> include sluggishness or lethargy, and if you observe them, please visit your veterinarian immediately. A good rule to live by is if it is too cold for you, it is too cold for your dog. Getting your dog a <a href="https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/pets/best-winter-dog-coats-jackets">sweater or jacket</a> and <a href="https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/vets-corner/protect-dogs-paws-snow-ice-salt/">paw covers</a> can provide them with protection from the elements and keep them comfortable. Veterinarians also recommend closely monitoring your dog and limiting their time outside when the temperature nears the freezing point or drops below it. <h2>Road salt dangers</h2> Road salt that treats ice on streets and sidewalks <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/kitchener-waterloo/ice-salt-toxic-for-pets-1.5020088">can also harm dogs</a>. When dogs walk on the salt, the sharp, rough edges of the salt crystals can irritate the sensitive skin on their paws. Dogs will often lick their feet when they’re dirty, wet or irritated, and if they ingest any salt doing that, they may face GI upset, dehydration, kidney failure, seizures or even death. Even small amounts of pure salt can <a href="https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-tips/my-dog-ate-road-salt-will-they-be-okay/">disrupt critical body functions</a> in dogs. Some companies make pet-safe salt, but in public it can be hard to tell what type of salt is on the ground. After walking your dog, wash off their feet or boots. You can also keep their paw fur trimmed to prevent snow from balling up or salt collecting in the fur. Applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly or <a href="https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/how-to-make-your-own-paw-balm-for-winter/">paw pad balm</a> to the skin of the paw pads can also help protect your pet’s paws from irritation. <h2>Antifreeze risks</h2> <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/antifreeze-chemical-substance">Antifreeze, or ethylene glycol</a>, is in most vehicles to prevent the fluids from freezing when it gets cold out. Some people pour antifreeze into their toilets when away from their home to prevent the water in the toilet from freezing. Antifreeze is an exceptionally dangerous chemical to dogs and cats, as it tastes sweet but can be deadly when ingested. If a pet ingests even a small amount of antifreeze, the substance causes a chemical cascade in their body that results in severe kidney damage. If left untreated, the pet may have <a href="https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-owner-blog/antifreeze-poisoning/">permanent kidney damage or die</a>. There are safer antifreeze options on the market that use ingredients other than ethylene glycol. If your dog ingests antifreeze, please see your veterinarian immediately for treatment. When temperatures dip below freezing, the best thing pet owners can do is keep the time spent outside as minimal as possible. Try some <a href="https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/great-indoor-games-to-play-with-your-dog/">indoor activities</a>, like hide-and-seek with low-calorie treats, fetch or even an interactive obstacle course. Food puzzles can also keep your dog mentally engaged during indoor time. Although winter presents some unique challenges, it can still be an enjoyable and healthy time for you and your canine companion.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/221709/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/erik-christian-olstad-1505284">Erik Christian Olstad</a>, Health Sciences Assistant Professor of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-california-davis-1312">University of California, Davis</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/dog-care-below-freezing-how-to-keep-your-pet-warm-and-safe-from-cold-weather-road-salt-and-more-this-winter-221709">original article</a>. </div>

Family & Pets

The dos and don’ts of caring for your hearing aids

Proper care and maintenance of your hearing aids is important. It will ensure you to get the most out of your aids, prevent problems and maintain optimum hearing conditions. Here are some guidelines to help you care for them. DO: clean your hearing aids regularly with a dry cloth or tissue. DON’T: get your hearing aids wet. That means no wearing them in the shower or when swimming. If they happen to get wet, dry it off immediately. DO: put your hearing aids in their case when you’re not using them DON’T: wear your aids when using aftershave, hairspray, perfume, sunscreen, insect repellent and so on. They contain chemicals that could damage it. Allow time for drying before putting back on hearing aids. DO: use a moisture protection kit/anti-humidity kit. They help with moisture problems (which can affect performance of hearing aids) and extend life of hearing aids. DO: keep out of reach of pets and visiting grandkids. Dogs have been known to chew them up and if swallowed by either pet or grandkid, can be very dangerous. DON’T: expose your device to extreme heats. Don’t leave them in a parked car, near a heater or wear while using a hairdryer. DO: Store your hearing aid in a safe place that's dry and cool. DON’T: leave your hearing aids switched on when you’re not using them. DO: change batteries often so you won’t be stuck with aids that have suddenly run out of power. DON’T: ever insert anything into the sound outlet as it could damage the receiver. If you can’t clean it properly, ask your hearing professional. DO: remove any earwax that gets into your hearing aid. It could cause permanent damage. Image credits: Getty Images

Hearing

"We are with you": Hero cop embraced at Bondi candlelight vigil

The victims of the Bondi Junction stabbing attack have been honoured at a candlelight vigil, with police officer Amy Scott, who ended the terror by shooting Joel Cauchi, stepping out for the first time. Hundred of tearful mourners fathered at Bondi on Sunday night, where Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, NSW Minister Chris Minns also joined in the sombre event to pay their respects to those who died in the Bondi Junction Westfield one week ago. The community gathered to farewell Ashlee Good, 38, Dawn Singleton, 25, Jade Young, 47, Pikria Darchia, 55, Yixuan Cheng, 27, and Faraz Tahir, 30, who were all fatally stabbed by 40-year-old Joel Cauchi. Cauchi was shot dead by police officer Amy Scott, who greeted and embraced emotional mourners at the vigil. Scott's actions were praised by the Prime Minister and the NSW Premier, who recognised her bravery in protecting the crowds of innocent people at the shopping centre. Speaking to the crowd, Mr Minns condemned Cauchi’s actions and the fear he instilled in the city’s residents. “Every Australian woman deserves to feel safe in her community. This is your state and your city,” he told the emotional crowd. “This is your home you have every right to live your life as you choose – free from fear and violence.” “We will not be a state where a woman is forced to change their behaviour because of the feelings or anger of other people.” The NSW Premier reminded mourners that millions of Australians shared their grief over the violent incident and were “in (their) corner” in the months to come. “Grief can be a terrible burden, but it doesn’t have to be a lonely one,” he said. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reinforced that all of Australia was grieving for “all that has been stolen from us”, including “all the possibility and potential, all the kindness and humanity, all the love and laughter of the six lives snatched away” last Saturday. He said the vigil was being held for those killed in the attack and for everyone affected, including the dozen people injured and the “survivors carrying the invisible scars of trauma and of fear.” “We think of everyone still trying to come to terms with a hole in their life where a loved one should be,” Mr Albanese said. “Every Australian is thinking of you. We are with you. " "As a community, as a country today, tomorrow and always made those we have lost rest in eternal peace forever in our hearts.” Image credits: Getty Images

Caring

Michael Schumacher’s wife makes emotional call

Michael Schumacher’s family has made the difficult decision to auction off his personal collection of luxury watches ahead of the Italian Grand Prix on May 19. The F1 legend's wife Corinna is believed to have made the decision as she continues to care for him after his devastating skiing accident over 10 years ago. Corinna manages Schumacher's $970 million fortune, which is set to grow with the sale of Schumacher's eight most valuable watches, including a one-of-a-kind FP Journe Vagabondage 1 Model, which is expected to sell for between $1.7 million and $3.4 million. Auction house Christie’s will conduct the sale of the F1 legend's watch collection, which is believed to be worth roughly $6 million. “Christie’s expresses sincere thanks to the Schumacher family for their trust in us and their wish to share these masterpieces of horology with other passionate collectors around the globe,” Rémi Guillemin, Christie’s Head of Watches Europe and US, said. “We are proud to present these iconic and unique timepieces belonging to one of the most celebrated Formula 1 legends. An exceptional moment, for watch and F1 enthusiasts alike. “We are looking forward to meeting with passionate collectors during our international exhibitions and the auction on 13 May in Geneva.” One of the other watches going up for auction is an Audemars Piguet watch which features the Ferrari emblem, Schumacher’s helmet design, symbols representing his seven titles and an engraved message, which read: “Xmas 2004 — Jean Todt for my friend Michael Schumacher." The watch was given to him by Todt and is expected to sell for between $250,000 and $425,000. The auction is another financial move by Corinna, who reportedly meets with a small group of financial advisers about three or four times a year to make decisions about the family's sales and investments. Ever since the accident Corinna has also been protecting her husband's privacy, with no one outside of Schumacher's inner circle knowing what happened to the F1 legend. <em style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #323338; font-family: Figtree, Roboto, 'Noto Sans Hebrew', 'Noto Kufi Arabic', 'Noto Sans JP', sans-serif; background-color: #ffffff; outline: none !important;">Image: Getty/ Christie's

Money & Banking

Bishop's extraordinary message after stabbing attack

The bishop who was stabbed multiple times while delivering a church service has spoken out while he recovers in hospital, issuing a message to his attacker. Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel was one of <a href="https://oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/teenage-boy-in-custody-after-stabbing-at-sydney-church" target="_blank" rel="noopener">four people stabbed</a> by a teenager at the Christ The Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley, in Sydney's west on Monday, with the shocking incident being captured by a livestream camera. The 55-year-old preacher is still recovering in hospital, but has shared a message to the young man who attacked him. “I say to him, you’re my son, I love you. And I will always pray for you,” he said in an audio message shared to the church’s social media. “And whoever sent you to do this, I forgive them as well. In Jesus mighty name. I have nothing in my heart but love for everyone." “Whether that person is a Christian or not, it’s totally beside the point. The Lord Jesus always taught us to love one another…" “And for this young man, I say to you, you’re my son, and you will always be, my praise my the Lord Jesus.” A 16-year-old has been under police guard since the attack on Monday night, although no charges have yet be laid. Counter-terrorism police have been stationed at the hospital ready to interview the teen once he is released by medical staff, with the lengthy process expected to lead to charges being laid. The boy has undergone surgery in relation to the severed finger and could require further operations. Image credits: Facebook

Caring

Families including someone with mental illness can experience deep despair. They need support

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amanda-cole-1484502">Amanda Cole</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/edith-cowan-university-720">Edith Cowan University</a> In the aftermath of the <a href="https://theconversation.com/bondi-attacker-had-mental-health-issues-but-most-people-with-mental-illness-arent-violent-227868">tragic Bondi knife attack</a>, Joel Cauchi’s parents have <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/video/2024/apr/15/bondi-junction-stabbings-joel-cauchis-father-extremely-sorry-for-victims-video">spoken</a> about their son’s long history of mental illness, having been diagnosed with schizophrenia at age 17. They said they were “devastated and horrified” by their son’s actions. “To you he’s a monster,” said his father. “But to me he was a very sick boy.” Globally, one out of every eight people <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-disorders">report a mental illness</a>. In Australia, <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/mental-health-services/mental-health">one in five people experience a mental illness</a> in their lifetime. Mental illness and distress affects not only the person living with the condition, but <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/chronic-conditions-and-multimorbidity">family members and communities</a>. As the prevalence of mental health problems grows, the flow-on effect to family members, including caregivers, and the impact on families as a unit, is also rising. While every family is different, the words of the Cauchis draw attention to how families can experience distress, stress, fear, powerlessness, and still love, despite the challenges and trauma. How can they help a loved one? And who can they turn to for support? <h2>The role of caregivers</h2> Informal caregivers help others <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-welfare/informal-carers">within the context of an existing relationship</a>, such as a family member. The care they provide goes beyond the usual expectations or demands of such relationships. Around <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-welfare/informal-carers">2.7 million Australians</a> provide informal care. For almost a third of these the person’s primary medical diagnosis is psychological or psychiatric. It has <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1074840708323598">long been acknowledged</a> that those supporting a family member with ongoing mental illness need support themselves. In the 1980s, interest grew in caregiving dynamics within families of people grappling with mental health issues. Subsequent research recognised <a href="http://www.aihw.gov.au/chronic-diseases/">chronic health conditions</a> not only affect the quality of life and wellbeing of the people experiencing them, but also impose burdens that reverberate within relationships, caregiving roles, and family dynamics over time. Past studies have shown families of those diagnosed with chronic mental illness are increasingly forced to <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24943714/">manage their own depression</a>, experience elevated levels of <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23692348/">emotional stress</a>, negative states of mind and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21165597/">decreased overall mental health</a>. Conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia can severely impact daily functioning, relationships, and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36875411/">overall quality of life</a>. Living with mental illness is often accompanied by a myriad of challenges. From stigma and discrimination to difficulty accessing adequate health care and support services. Patients and their families navigate a complex and often isolating journey. <h2>The family is a system</h2> The concept of <a href="http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/10665/40336/1/16937_eng.pdf">family health</a> acknowledges the physical and psychological wellbeing of a person is significantly affected by the family. Amid these challenges, <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1330720/full">family support</a> emerges as a beacon of hope. Research consistently demonstrates strong familial relationships and support systems play a pivotal role in mitigating the adverse effects of mental illness. Families provide emotional support, practical assistance, and a sense of belonging that are vital for people struggling with mental illness. My recent <a href="https://www.collegianjournal.com/article/S1322-7696(24)00004-0/fulltext">research</a> highlights the profound impact of mental illness on family dynamics, emphasising the resilience and endurance shown by participants. Families struggling with mental illness often experience heightened emotional fluctuations, with extreme highs and lows. The enduring nature of family caregiving entails both stress and adaptation over an extended period. Stress associated with caregiving and the demands on personal resources and coping mechanisms builds and builds. Yet families I’ve <a href="https://www.collegianjournal.com/article/S1322-7696(24)00004-0/fulltext">interviewed</a> find ways to live “a good life”. They prepare for the peaks and troughs, and show endurance and persistence. They make space for mental illness in their daily lives, describing how it spurs adaptation, acceptance and inner strength within the family unit. When treating a person with mental illness, health practitioners need to consider the entire family’s needs and engage with family members. By fostering open and early dialogue and providing comprehensive support, health-care professionals can empower families to navigate the complexities of mental illness while fostering resilience and hope for the future. Family members <a href="https://www.collegianjournal.com/article/S1322-7696(24)00004-0/fulltext">express stories</a> of an inner struggle, isolation and exhaustion. <h2>Shifting the focus</h2> There is a pressing need for a shift in research priorities, from illness-centered perspectives to a <a href="https://shop.elsevier.com/books/child-youth-and-family-health-strengthening-communities/barnes/978-0-7295-4155-8">strengths-based focus</a> when considering families “managing” mental illness. There is transformative potential in harnessing strengths to respond to challenges posed by mental illnesses, while also <a href="https://www.collegianjournal.com/article/S1322-7696(24)00004-0/fulltext">supporting family members</a>. For people facing mental health challenges, having <a href="https://www.sane.org/information-and-resources/facts-and-guides/families-friends-carers">loved ones who listen without judgement</a> and offer empathy can alleviate feelings of despair. Beyond emotional support, families often serve as crucial caregivers, assisting with <a href="https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/emergency-help/helping-someone-else/">daily tasks, medication management and navigating the health-care system</a>. As the Cauchi family so painfully articulated, providing support for a family member with mental illness is intensely challenging. Research <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4804270/">shows</a> caregiver burnout, financial strain and strained relationships are common. Health-care professionals should prioritise support for family members at an early stage. In Australia, there are various support options available for families living with mental illness. <a href="https://www.carergateway.gov.au/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=paid-search&utm_campaign=10626744435&utm_adgroup=102994881737&utm_term=carer%20gateway%20wa&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIt8T6pJzIhQMVjAyDAx2KiQl1EAAYASAAEgLj-fD_BwE">Carer Gateway</a> provides information, support and access to services. <a href="https://www.headspace.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=HS_Headspace_Brand-Exact_Search_AU-INT_Google_NA&utm_content=&utm_term=headspace&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI4uKKvpzIhQMVFheDAx1bZgk8EAAYASAAEgLy6vD_BwE">Headspace</a> offers mental health services and supports to young people and their families. Beyond these national services, GPs, nurses, nurse practitioners and local community health centres are key to early conversations. Mental health clinics and hospitals often target family involvement in treatment plans. While Australia has made strides in recognising the importance of family support, challenges persist. Access to services can vary based on geographic location and demand, leaving some families under-served or facing long wait times. And the level of funding and resources allocated to family-oriented mental health support often does not align with the demand or complexity of need. In the realm of mental illness, family support serves as a lifeline for people navigating the complexities of their conditions. <hr /> If this article has raised issues for you, or if you’re concerned about someone you know, call <a href="https://www.lifeline.org.au/">Lifeline</a> on 13 11 14.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/228007/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/amanda-cole-1484502">Amanda Cole</a>, Lead, Mental Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/edith-cowan-university-720">Edith Cowan University</a> Image credits: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/families-including-someone-with-mental-illness-can-experience-deep-despair-they-need-support-228007">original article</a>. </div>

Caring

Young boy killed in car crash just days after losing mum to cancer

A young boy killed in a car crash in rural Victoria has been identified as seven-year-old Harley Galea-Smith, who had just lost his mother to breast cancer prior to the accident. Harley was a passenger in the car when it crashed with a truck on Trafalgar-Willow Grove Rd in Trafalgar, just before 5:20 pm on Sunday. Despite paramedics best efforts, they couldn't save the young boy and the adult driver of the car, who both died at the scene. Two dogs in the vehicle also passed away, while the driver of the truck was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Harley’s mother Amy Galea, 39, was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer earlier this year, and passed away just four weeks later. A friend has created a <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/amy-and-harley" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GoFundMe</a> for "Amy and her beautiful boy Harley” to help cover their funeral costs. “This has devastated Amy’s family and left them helpless,” they said. Victoria Police are investigating the circumstances of the crash. Image: GoFundMe

Caring

Happy update on "unsung" Bondi hero

"Unsung" Bondi hero Muhammad Taha, originally from Pakistan, was stabbed in the stomach as he confronted killer Joel Cauchi on Saturday. While recovering in hospital, he made a <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/forgotten-bondi-junction-hero-s-plea-to-pm" target="_blank" rel="noopener">desperate plea</a> to the government to let him stay longer in the country he now calls home, following the public praise and a confirmed visa extension for French national Damien Guerot, also known as “bollard man”. Now, the security guard confirmed that the government would be granting him the opportunity to stay here, and Taha says he is honoured. “Yeah, (the government) got in touch with me, so maybe they will soon start the process, hopefully,” he told The Australian on Thursday. “I’m very honoured. It’s a great gesture from the government. “I’ve been in Australia around one-and-a-half years. It’s home to me. I love being here. I’m very thankful for this.” Taha was on a graduate visa that was due to expire within weeks. In an interview with SBS reporter Janice Peterson on Thursday night, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Immigration Minister Andrew Giles had spoken with Taha and expressed confidence that his visa issues would be "sorted out". “We know that Mr Taha put his own safety at risk in order to protect people who were there shopping," Albanese said. The prime minister also told A Current Affair he was “very confident” the issue would be resolved on Friday. “The minister has spoken with the gentlemen who is still in hospital, Muhammad, and we wish him every swift recovery,” he said at the time. “We’re just going through our processes but we see no reason why this shouldn’t be approved, and I’m very confident it will be approved tomorrow.” He added that people like Taha were welcome in Australia. “This is again another person who is newly arrived, was here working, and put his life on the line in order to protect Australians who he didn’t know,” he said. “Amidst all this carnage and sorrow, there are stories of bravery ... he certainly is the sort of character that we want to see continuing to contribute here in Australia.” Images: Getty/ news.com.au

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Bondi Junction Westfield reopens after stabbing tragedy

Bondi Junction Westfield has reopened five days after the devastating stabbing tragedy that claimed the lives of six people and injured several others. Before the centre opened at 11am on Thursday, dozens of people lined up to pay their respects to those who have died at the "community reflection day" held at the centre. The centre was lined with images of black commemorative ribbons to honour those who lost their lives on Saturday, when 40-year-old Joel Cauchi went on his stabbing rampage through the centre. Speaking from inside the Westfield today, one woman told news.com.au said she was returning to the centre with her toddler because she works in one of the stores and wanted to get used to going inside again after the tragic events. Another man said he felt compelled to come today because “everyone in Sydney has been to Bondi Junction at some point”. He noted how it felt “weird” to be there but he thought it was important the victims didn’t go “unseen”. Similarly, a young woman that works down the road in nearby Eastgate shopping centre said she was here today to “pay her respects”. She also noted it felt like the “safest” day to return to the shopping centre because of the ramped up police presence. Scentre Group, which owns and operates the shopping centre, said there would be no retail trade on the day of reflection, but shops would open for business on Friday with an increased police and security presence. “The centre will be quiet — it will allow for reflection to occur,” chief executive Elliott Rusanow said. The shopping centre will resume normal trading hours on Friday, although Rusanow said some businesses would remain shut. “It will be their (retailers’) choice when they want to re-open,” he said. “This has been a very difficult time and I want to acknowledge the hard work and tireless efforts of our Westfield Bondi and Scentre Group teams,” Mr Rusanow said. “They have been working through conditions which have been devastating in their minds and in all our minds." Premier Chris Minns said the devastating attack had touched people across NSW, regardless of whether they knew the victims. “This vigil will be an opportunity for the community to stand together to support and honour the victims and survivors of this horrific tragedy,” he said. “I hope they can draw some strength from the fact that there’s many people that are standing with them during this time.” Image credits: Getty Images

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"I miss her hugs": British acting legend shares heartbreaking loss

Actor Warwick Davis has shared the heartbreaking news of his wife's death. The actor, known for his roles in Harry Potter and Star Wars, took to social media to share the news of his wife Samantha's death, who passed away at the age of 53. “Her passing has left a huge hole in our lives as a family. I miss her hugs”, Warwick, 54, said. He added, “She was a unique character, always seeing the sunny side of life she had a wicked sense of humour and always laughed at my bad jokes. “Without Sammy, there would have been no Tenable quiz show, no Willow series. No Idiot Abroad Series 3.” Warwick said Samantha was his “most trusted confidant and an ardent supporter of everything I did in my career”. The couple’s children, Harrison and Annabelle, added, “Mum is our best friend and we’re honoured to have received a love like hers “Her love and happiness carried us through our whole lives”. Warwick and Samantha met on the set of the movie Willow in 1988 and got married three years later. Samantha had achondroplasia, a bone growth disorder that causes disproportionate dwarfism. Warwick has previously opened up about his wife’s health after she was rushed to hospital with sepsis in 2018, and had to undergo several different surgeries to stabilise her condition. Warwick, co-founder of charity Little People UK, has often spoken out about the health battles related to his condition, as well his wife’s. He was born with Spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita (SED), an extremely rare genetic form of dwarfism, which has been inherited by both their daughter Annabelle and son Harrison. Image credits: Getty Images

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Best-selling author diagnosed with "aggressive" brain cancer

Best-selling author Sophie Kinsella has shared that she has been fighting "aggressive" brain cancer since the end of 2022. The British writer took to Instagram to reveal she was diagnosed with glioblastoma 18 months ago, and shared why she chose to keep the devatstsing news out of the spotlight. The 54-year-old said she wanted to "make sure my children were able to hear and process the news in privacy and adapt to our new normal" before going public with her diagnosis. "I have been under the care of the excellent team at University College Hospital in London and have had successful surgery and subsequent radiotherapy and chemotherapy, which is still ongoing," she told her followers on Instagram. "At the moment all is stable and I am feeling generally very well, though I get very tired and my memory is even worse than it was before!" Kinsella said she is "so grateful to my family and close friends who have been an incredible support to me, and to the wonderful doctors and nurses who have treated me." She also thanked her readers for their "constant support", adding how the reception of her latest novel The Burnout, released in October 2023, "really buoyed me up during a difficult time." She ended her statement by saying, "To everyone who is suffering from cancer in any form I send love and best wishes, as well as to those who support them." "It can feel very lonely and scary to have a tough diagnosis, and the support and care of those around you means more than words can say." Image credits: Getty Images

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Why is the Sydney church stabbing an act of terrorism, but the Bondi tragedy isn’t?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/greg-barton-10990">Greg Barton</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> Just days after the deadly <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-14/several-killed-in-mass-stabbing-at-westfield-bondi-junction/103705354">Westfield Bondi attacks</a>, a <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-16/albanese-says-there-is-no-place-for-violence-in-our-community/10372830">second knife attack</a> in Sydney has generated widespread shock and grief. This time, a 16-year-old entered an Assyrian church and rushed forward to stab the popular bishop presiding over a service, together with a priest who rushed to his defence. The shocking events were captured on the church’s video stream, and the news quickly reached thousands of members of Sydney’s large Assyrian community. While both priests were injured, thankfully the knife blows were not fatal. Parishioners immobilised the attacker, and police and paramedics swarmed the church. Police moved quickly to identify the assailant and analyse his apparent motivation before announcing they were treating the attack as a <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-68823240">terrorist incident</a> early this morning. Public knife attacks are rare in Australia, and for Sydney to experience two in quick succession has rightfully alarmed many and, understandably, led to comparisons between the two. A lot of the discussion is around why the Bondi Junction shopping mall attack in which six were killed wasn’t considered terrorism, but this shocking, but non-lethal, attack was. So what do we know about the church attack, and what important distinctions can be made between it and the awful events at Bondi? <h2>What happened at the church?</h2> Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel has developed a large following, not just in Australia but in the Assyrian diaspora <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-16/who-is-bishop-mar-mari-emmanuel-wakeley-church-attack/103728808">around the world</a>, with his live-streamed sermons. Shortly after seven o'clock on Monday night, the video feed of the Christ The Good Shepherd Church in Sydney’s outer west went dead, but not before it captured the shocking attack and parishioners rushing forward to help. Almost immediately, crowds gathered outside the church. We don’t yet know the motivations of the people who turned up, but it can be assumed they were there because they either saw or heard of what had happened and rushed over out of concern. Tragically, at some point the dynamics of the fast-swelling crowd took a dark turn. Instead of letting the large police and ambulance presence continue to handle the situation, some emotional onlookers turned on the authorities. Multiple police officers and paramedics were injured and vehicles were heavily damaged. It’s likely the fact the attack was captured on video, and therefore able to be shared and watched over and over again, added to the combustibility of an already volatile situation. It would appear the attack was deliberately planned to provoke an angry response. But what exactly happened in the crowd is the subject of one police investigation. <h2>Why is it considered a terrorist act?</h2> The other investigation is an anti-terrorism one. This is because while the teenager acted alone, it’s very likely they had received encouragement and backing from others. <a href="https://www.fbi.gov/history/famous-cases/unabomber">The Unabomber</a> is one of the very few documented cases of someone committing violence for ideological reasons truly in isolation. This lone actor attack in Sydney is reminiscent of the <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-10-03/nsw-police-headquarters-gunman-was-radicalised-youth/6825028">2015 murder</a> of police accountant Curtis Cheng. He was shot dead by a 15-year-old who had been radicalised by supporters of Islamic State. It later came out <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-03-14/curtis-cheng-murder-surveillance-man-guilty-of-terror-plan/10900982">in court</a> the attack had been planned by three other people, who also supplied him with the gun. Police were quick to pronounce the knife attack on Monday to be an act of terrorism. Having identified the attacker, they would have been studying his social connections and examining his digital footprint. The police assessment would have also given attention to the particulars of the church targeted. <a href="https://www.britannica.com/topic/Assyrian">Assyrians</a> (people from northwest Iraq, northeast Syria and southeast Turkey) are almost exclusively Christian, belonging to one of the oldest churches in existence, living in precisely that part of the world in which the Islamic State established its brutal caliphate. It’s telling that before the caliphate was established, Assyrians made up just 3% of the Iraqi population. But in the wake of Islamic State sweeping across northern Syria and Iraq, Assyrians soon made up <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/assyrian-australians-plead-for-second-special-refugee-settlement-deal/x7ej8ix2y">40%</a> of Iraqi refugees. The trauma of those years is <a href="https://theconversation.com/diversity-and-religious-pluralism-are-disappearing-amid-iraqs-crisis-29832">recent history</a>, fresh in the minds of many. The recent Islamic State claim of responsibility for the <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/03/27/europe/missing-people-russia-moscow-concert-hall-attack-intl/index.html">recent deadly attacks in Moscow</a>, is a reminder the group remains a live and growing threat. For these reasons police will be looking for any evidence Islamic State might have played a role in inspiring this attack. <h2>Terrorism or not terrorism?</h2> Events at the church have been under a bigger spotlight given the events of the days preceding it. Despite <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/apr/15/false-claims-started-spreading-about-the-bondi-junction-stabbing-attack-as-soon-as-it-happened">early misinformation</a>, police said thathey believe the Bondi killer, Joel Cauchi, was not motivated by a larger political cause – that is, a terrorist motivation. Instead, they say he lashed out violently because of anger control issues related to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/apr/14/joel-cauchi-who-was-the-queensland-man-who-carried-out-the-bondi-junction-mass-stabbing">mental ill-health</a>. But of the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/apr/14/bondi-junction-mass-stabbing-attack-who-are-the-six-victims">six people</a> he killed, five were women. Women also make up the majority of those injured. The one man who lost his life, security guard Faraz Tahir, a Muslim refugee from Pakistan, was attacked because he bravely <a href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/04/16/friend-of-bondi-security-guard-says-his-last-moments-were-brave/">rushed towards</a> danger in an attempt to try to stop Cauchi. NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said Cauchi <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-04-15/westfield-bondi-attack-stabbing-investigation/103706698">deliberately targeted women</a>. So if someone is targeting a specific group of people, isn’t that terrorism? Why does it matter if they were killing based on gender or religion? Is misogyny not terrorism? Put simply, the defining characteristic of terrorism is perpetuating violence in the name of a higher, broader cause. Terrorists have a belief in a collective goal, and see themselves as being backed by people who share that belief. Misogyny can be an element of their motivation and justification of hatred, but it’s part of a larger political project. Basically, it boils down to whether these violent actors think they’re part of a political or religious movement that’s going to <a href="https://theconversation.com/social-inclusion-is-important-in-aotearoa-new-zealand-but-so-is-speaking-honestly-about-terrorism-167429">change the system</a>, or whether they are simply angry men projecting loathing and driven by personal demons. The two, of course, are <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/not-since-the-lindt-siege-has-sydney-known-grief-like-this-20240414-p5fjnl.html">not mutually exclusive</a>. This is not to undermine the damage that angry men can, and do, inflict. Domestic violence is a bigger threat to Australians than terrorism. Calling something a terrorist act doesn’t make it more or less serious than anything else, rather the categorisation is to provide conceptual clarity for the sake of the ensuing investigation. Events at Westfield Bondi Junction and the Assyrian Christ The Good Shepherd Church are both awful, but while they share some similarities, they are different sorts of crimes with different drivers and enablers. As police investigations continue, we’ll come to better understand the nature of both.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/227997/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /> <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/greg-barton-10990">Greg Barton</a>, Chair in Global Islamic Politics, Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757">Deakin University</a> Image credit: Getty Images This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-is-the-sydney-church-stabbing-an-act-of-terrorism-but-the-bondi-tragedy-isnt-227997">original article</a>. </div>

Caring

"Incredibly relieving" update on baby injured in Bondi stabbing

The youngest victim of the <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/family-of-bondi-killer-break-silence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stabbing spree</a> at Bondi Junction Westfield is in a stable condition after her mother, Ashlee Good, 38, died protecting her. The nine-month-old underwent emergency surgery to save her life after being stabbed and on Monday morning NSW Health Minister Ryan Park confirmed that her condition has improved from critical to serious but stable. “I speak on behalf of the entire nation who held its breath over the weekend that (the) young nine month old girl who went to Sydney Children’s Hospital is now in a serious, stable condition,” he told 2GB. “So she’s come down from critical. “There is a chance over the course of the next day that she’ll be moved on to a ward. Now that is incredibly relieving, I think, for our country." Her mother, was among was among the six people killed by Joel Cauchi, 40, during the attack. After they had been attacked, Good thrust her young bub into the arms of a bystander. A man and his brother helped take care of the baby until help arrived. "The mum got stabbed and... came over with the baby and threw it at me and [I] was holding the baby," the man told Nine News at the time. The man's brother told the publication: "He helped with holding the baby and trying to compress the baby and same with the mother. "We just kept yelling out to get some clothes, get some shirts and just help us to compress and stop the baby from bleeding. "With my brother holding the baby so well and really compressing, I think the baby's fine." Good was the daughter of former Australian Football League player Kerry Good, who played for North Melbourne. On Sunday, her family shared a statement thanking everyone for their support and paid tribute to the two men who "cared for our baby when Ashlee could not". “We appreciate the well-wishes and thoughts of members of the Australian public who have expressed an outpouring of love for Ashlee and our baby girl," they said. Good has been <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/royals-issue-heartfelt-statement-after-bondi-attack" target="_blank" rel="noopener">remembered</a> as "a beautiful mother, daughter, sister, partner, friend, all-round outstanding human." According to the NSW health minister, the condition of the eight victims who remain in hospital varied from critical to stable. Image: news.com.au/ Sydney Morning Herald

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"Just doing her job": Hero cop Amy Scott breaks silence after Bondi stabbing

The hero police officer who shot Joel Cauchi after his killing spree has spoken out after the devastating incident. NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott was confronted by the knife-wielding 40-year-old after he had fatally stabbed six people and injured several others at Bondi Junction Westfield on Saturday afternoon. Witnesses of the incident recall hearing the officer shout for Cauchi to "put it down" before the knifeman charged at her, prompting her to fire her weapon and shoot him dead. “Amy is content with what she had to do," Police Association of NSW boss Kevin Morton said. “I spoke to her last night and again this morning and she said, ‘It was a night with not a lot of sleep’.” Mr Morton said the officer, who he has known personally for years, was playing down the praise she had received after being dubbed a "hero" for her actions. “She knows she has been tagged a hero but to her she was doing her job. I didn’t ask her about the exact incident, because she is yet to be formally interviewed,” he said. “Everyone will be keeping an eye on her obviously, there will be a lot of support from everyone,’’ he said She also drew praise from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and NSW Premier Chris Minns, as well as NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb. “She showed enormous courage and bravery,” Ms Webb said. Witnesses backed up the officer's actions at the shopping centre, as Bondi man Jason Dixon witnessed Inspector Scott's response firsthand. “All she said was ‘Put it down’. Just once. Then she shot him in the chest and he went down,” Mr Dixon told The Sunday Telegraph. “Then when he fell on the ground she was giving him CPR,” Mr Dixon said. “She had to shoot him, because he just kept coming,” Mr Dixon said. “He had a knife and he wasn’t going to stop. “He was advancing at her and he was running, coming to get someone else,” Mr Dixon said. “She shot him once in the heart or the chest,” he said. “I’m glad she got him, because if she didn’t he would have stabbed her too.” Inspector Scott will be formally interviewed by police later this week as part of the major investigation into the stabbing. Image credits: news.com.au / X (Twitter) <div class="media image side-by-side" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin-bottom: 24px; display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; width: 1209.375px; max-width: 100%; font-family: Charter, Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px;"> </div>

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Jess Rowe explains her husband's absence from the news desk

Jessica Rowe has shared the reason why her husband Peter Overton has been absent from his presenting duties on the 9News desk for the last few weeks. Taking to her Instagram, Rowe explained that Overton has been at home recovering from surgery and will remain on leave for another few weeks. “Many of you have been missing Petee from your TV screens these past couple of weeks & have asked me where he is!” the 53-year-old began in her post. “Well he’s at home recovering from hip replacement surgery & getting lots of TLC. Petee will be back @9newssydney soon!” In her post, the former Studio 10 host shared a photo of her husband, 58, with his feet up on the bed, appearing in good spirits. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5r02QYydV1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C5r02QYydV1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Jessica Rowe (@jessjrowe)</a> </div> </blockquote> Her followers thanked Rowe for the update while also wishing the beloved news anchor a speedy recovery from the extensive procedure. “Oh! We miss seeing you Pete! Get well soon,” wrote one, while another commented, “Thank you we have missed Pete wondering what had happened to him. Wishing Pete all the very best for a speedy recovery.” “Legend! The best in the business! Hope you are back reading the news soon. Miss seeing you read the evening news so much,” wrote yet another. Others who had undergone the same surgery shared their words of encouragement, with one person commenting, “OMG Peter I had hip replacement surgery 5 weeks ago. Hang in there buddy it gets better I promise.” Image credits: Instagram

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Royals issue heartfelt statement after Bondi attack

The Prince and Princess of Wales have shared a heartfelt message to the victims and survivors of the deadly <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/family-of-bondi-killer-break-silence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stabbing attack</a> at Westfield Bondi Junction on Saturday. William and Kate took to Instagram to share the statement, after six people were killed and 12 others injured following the violent attack. "We are shocked and saddened by the terrible events in Sydney earlier today," the royals wrote on Saturday. "Our thoughts are with all those affected, including the loved ones of those lost and the heroic emergency responders who risked their own lives to save others." Tributes have also poured in for the other victims, who were tragically killed in the attack. Dawn Singleton, 25, was <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/i-am-so-heartbroken-tributes-flow-for-bride-to-be-stabbing-victim" target="_blank" rel="noopener">planning her wedding </a>at the time of the stabbing, and was shopping for make-up before she was tragically killed by Joel Cauchi. “Dawn, I should be writing your wedding speech, but instead I sit here sobbing,” her friend Jade O’Connor wrote on Facebook. “This year you were meant to get married to the love of your life — I’m so heartbroken and (I) can’t believe this reality.” Ashlee Good, 38, died protecting her baby girl from Cauchi, after passing her injured 9-month-old to bystanders. Her family have said that they were "reeling from the terrible loss of Ashlee, a beautiful mother, daughter, sister, partner, friend, all-round outstanding human and so much more". Faraz Tahir, 30, a security guard working at the shopping centre, reportedly started his first day shift at the centre on the day that he was murdered. “It’s very tragic news — this is something which you don’t expect at all,” his friend Adnan Qadir told Sunrise. “It is hard for me to fathom he was with me 72 hours before the tragedy and then we lost him in such circumstances.” “He was a great guy — he keeps other people’s interests ahead of his own. “Had a lot of ambition for his future ... Just settling into his new country. “He was looking forward to a stable career, to make a family up here. It is just sad how it all ended up," Qadir said. Images: Getty/ Instagram

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"I am so heartbroken": Tributes flow for bride-to-be stabbing victim

Family and friends of Dawn Singleton are in mourning after the 25-year-old was one of the six people stabbed to death by Joel Cauchi in Bondi Junction Westfield on Saturday. The 25-year-old was planning her wedding at the time of the stabbing, and was in the shopping centre looking for wedding makeup. Dawn, daughter of Aussie millionaire businessman John Singleton, had purchased her wedding dress just days before her life was tragically cut short. “Dawn, I should be writing your wedding speech, but instead I sit here sobbing,” Friend Jade O’Connor wrote on Facebook. “This year you were meant to get married to the love of your life — I’m so heartbroken and (I) can’t believe this reality.” Friend Emmi Shannon told <a href="https://7news.com.au/news/heartbreaking-detail-emerges-after-john-singletons-daughter-dawn-singleton-named-as-bondi-junction-westfield-stabbing-victim-c-14313870" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7News</a>, “She was just the most perfect human being that I’ve ever met. She’s so sweet, so humble, so down to earth.” Dawn was engaged to her high school sweetheart Ashley Wildey, a police officer who had reportedly been on the scene at the shopping centre, attending the scene after finishing another shift. "He had arrived at Westfield when officers realised his fiancée was one of the victims," a source told The Daily Telegraph. Mr Wildey was then allowed to leave the scene to be comforted by family and friends, as is procedure. Singleton worked at White Fox Boutique, with colleagues saying they were “devastated” by her death. “We are all truly devastated by this loss,” the company said on social media. “Dawn was a sweet, kind-hearted person who had her whole life ahead of her. She was really amazing." “We send our love and deepest condolences to her partner, the Singleton family and her friends.” Dawn was one of six women killed by Joel Cauchi in the callous attack, which left several others injured. Cauchi's victims included Pikria Darchia, 55, Ashlee Good, 38; Faraz Tahir, 30; Dawn Singleton, 25; Jade Young, 47; and Yixuan Cheng, 25. A dozen others – mostly women – were also injured, including Good’s nine-month old baby girl. Image credits: Facebook

Caring

Kyle Sandilands' family member among first victims stabbed in Bondi

Kyle Sandilands became emotional as he described how his wife’s relative Yvonne Wineberg was one of the first women targeted during the terrifying stabbing <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/family-of-bondi-killer-break-silence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">attack</a> at Westfield Bondi Junction on Saturday. Speaking to co-host Jackie “O” Henderson and newsreader Brooklyn Ross, on The Kyle & Jackie O show Monday morning, Sandilands revealed: “One of the first women to get stabbed in the shoulder was a family member of ours. “She’s a very close family member to my wife. “So, we were watching it on TV, and saw one of our families were involved and carted off to hospital.” He also said that a Bondi lifeguard, who was trapped in Myer during the incident after the store had pulled down their shutters to keep shoppers safe, had asked to be let out so he could help Wineberg. “He could see our family member that got stabbed laying on the ground. There was so much blood. “He said, ‘if I don’t get to her, she’s losing too much blood’, so they let him out, and he rendered assistance before the paramedics arrived.” Sandilands didn't name the lifeguard, but shared the horrors the lifeguard witnessed during the attack. “He said every 50 foot there was another person laying in a pile of blood — all the way down the mall,” the KIIS FM star said. Wineberg was released from hospital on Sunday afternoon. NSW Police identified Joel Cauchi as the killer on Sunday. He was fatally shot just minutes after he left six dead and 12 injured during the terrifying attack at the shopping centre on Saturday night. Cauchi's parents have <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/family-of-bondi-killer-break-silence" target="_blank" rel="noopener">spoken out</a> and expressed their devastation and disbelief at their son's actions, describing the attack as "truly horrific". They also said that they "have no issues with the police officer who shot our son as she was only doing her job to protect others and we hope she is coping alright.” Cauchi's victims included Pikria Darchia, 55, Ashlee Good, 38; Faraz Tahir, 30; Dawn Singleton, 25; Jade Young, 47; and Yixuan Cheng, 25. A dozen others – mostly women – were also injured, including Good’s nine-month old baby girl. Images: 7NEWS

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Our Partners

News

Shop

Catalogues

Newspaper

Contests

Entertainment

Travel

Health

Lifestyle

Finance

Property

Compare

Games

Information

Keep up to date

Search

Christina Applegate details bout of Covid and Sapovirus amid MS battle

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Michael Schumacher’s wife makes emotional call

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Kyle Sandilands' family member among first victims stabbed in Bondi

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