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Mother of Charlie Teo's "miracle girl" shares more tragic news

<p>In the face of immense tragedy and loss, Monica Smirk, the mother of 14-year-old Amelia "Milli" Lucas, has opened up about more devastating news that has befallen her family.</p> <p>Amelia, fondly known as Milli, passed away a month after celebrating her 14th birthday on January 4, 2021, following a courageous battle against a rare and terminal genetic cancer.</p> <p>Diagnosed with a Grade VI Glioblastoma at the tender age of nine, Milli was given a mere 12 weeks to live. However, with the help of controversial neurosurgeon <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/dr-charlie-teo-breaks-his-silence-with-post-about-his-miracle-girl" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Charlie Teo</a>, she defied the odds, surviving another remarkable five years after undergoing two surgeries.</p> <p>Now, Monica, her resilient mother, has revealed that she is facing her own battle with terminal cancer. Inoperable tumours on her back have cast a shadow of uncertainty, leaving her and her family grappling with fear and hope.</p> <p>The Smirk family has encountered the devastating impact of Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a rare gene disposition that has tragically claimed the lives of Monica's mother, brother, daughter, niece, and nephew. This syndrome, affecting fewer than 1,000 individuals worldwide, greatly increases the risk of various cancers throughout one's life.</p> <p>Recalling the emotional turmoil, Monica shared that she first discovered the lumps on her back while caring for Milli in 2021, but the overwhelming emotions held her back from seeking an immediate biopsy. As her health situation progressed, treatment was halted after fluid was found in her lungs. Nevertheless, she holds on to the possibility of further treatment options pending additional scans later this year.</p> <p>In another heart-wrenching update, Monica also revealed that her 19-year-old daughter Tess is awaiting the results of a concerning annual scan. Tess, who also battles Li-Fraumeni syndrome, faced her own hardships when diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2016, resulting in legal blindness. Despite the challenges, she courageously pursues her dream of becoming a professional dancer.</p> <p>As the Smirk family grapples with these overwhelming health challenges, their community has come together, rallying behind them with love and support.</p> <p>The Millstar Foundation, an initiative started by the family to honour their beloved "angel" Milli, aims to provide alternative therapies for patients in Western Australia. Their efforts have been met with an outpouring of generosity, as they have collected more than $13,000 worth of prizes for a raffle, supporting Monica in her fight for life.</p> <p>Milli's journey with Dr Teo, who she affectionately referred to as her "miracle worker," brought both hope and controversy. Though he successfully removed 98 percent of a brain tumour considered inoperable and incurable by other surgeons in 2019, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/dr-charlie-teo-speaks-out-after-guilty-finding" target="_blank" rel="noopener">recent incidents have led to reprimands</a> by the NSW Medical Board.</p> <p>While the circumstances are undoubtedly heartbreaking, Monica expressed her gratitude for the extra years Dr Teo provided Milli, acknowledging the precious time and memories they had together.</p> <p>Amidst the pain, Monica also spoke out about her concern for other patients who may no longer have access to potentially lifesaving surgeries due to restrictions imposed on Dr Teo. She hopes that future research and medical advancements will continue to shine a light of hope for those facing similar battles.</p> <p>In the face of unimaginable adversity, the Smirk family finds solace in the unwavering support and love of their community. For those who wish to contribute to the raffle and extend a helping hand to the Smirk family, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/2378778672391405/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Millstar Foundation Incorporated Facebook group</a> provides an opportunity to make a difference and be a source of hope in their challenging journey.</p> <p><em>Images: Facebook</em></p>

Caring

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URGENT RECALL: Lucas' Papaw Ointment pulled from shelves

<p>Several batches of Lucas’ Papaw Ointment have been urgently recalled, due to microbial contamination.</p> <p>The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued the nationwide recall of 11 batches of the topical ointment.</p> <p>The microorganisms in questions have been identified as Aspergillus tubingensis, Sordaria humana, Penicillium paneum and Paenibacillus glucanolyticus.</p> <p>The TGA said that while these moulds and bacteria pose “minimal risk” to the general population, there is a “remote risk” that individuals who are immunocompromised could become ill if exposed to these organisms.</p> <p>The impacted batch numbers are:</p> <ul> <li>00522D22, 15g, Expiry April 2025</li> <li>00822E25, 15g, Expiry May 2025</li> <li>00822E26, 15g, Expiry May 2025</li> <li>00822E27, 15g, Expiry May 2025</li> <li>00822F01, 15g, Expiry June 2025</li> <li>00822F03, 15g, Expiry June 2025</li> <li>00822F06, 15g, Expiry June 2025</li> <li>00822E31, 15g, Expiry May 2025</li> <li>00522E04, 75g, Expiry May 2025</li> <li>00522E05, 75g, Expiry May 2025</li> <li>00822E30, 200g, Expiry May 2025</li> </ul> <p>Those who use the cult product are urged to check the batch number which can be found at the ‘crimp’ at the top of the tube or at the bottom of the bigger containers.</p> <p>Those who have an ointment from an affected batch are advised to “immediately stop using it” and return it to the place of purchase for a refund.</p> <p>No other batches or other Lucas’ Papaw Remedies products are being recalled at this time.</p> <p><em>Images: Lucas Papaw.com.au </em></p>

Body

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Home and Away star's freedom of speech tirade

<p>Former Home And Away star Isabel Lucas is reportedly throwing her support behind controversial celebrity chef Pete Evans if a recent, rambling Instagram post is anything to go by.</p> <p>The 36-year-old, who played Tasha Andrews on the show from 2003-2006, took to the social media platform to share an inspirational quote about "truth" earlier this week, but it was her lengthy and bizarre caption that featured under the post that raised eyebrows.</p> <p>The post didn't specifically mention Evans, but many believed the tirade was Lucas' way of rallying behind the chef.</p> <p>Lucas kicked off her post with another famous quote by Evelyn Beatrice Hall: “I do not agree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”</p> <p>She then launched into a rant about “freedom of speech”.</p> <p>“I have been wanting to speak about freedom of speech and censorship here for a long time,” she wrote.</p> <p>“If you are feeling cautious to ask worthy questions because of what bullies, or those who lack insight or compassion might say, may you remember the words of Evelyn Beatrice Hall.</p> <p>“May you be inspired by the countless courageous ones who have expressed their truth in the face of adversity: Rosa May Parks, John F Kennedy, Robert F Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr, Eddie Mabo, Malcolm X, Joan of Arc, Nikola Tesla, Julian Assange, Socrates, Jesus, John Lennon, Hypatia, Nelson Mandela, Maya Angelou, Michael Leunig, Waris Dirie, thousands of women, called ‘witches’ … and countless others.”</p> <p>The post continued with Lucas claiming that “historically and culturally, many of these people we herald today as change-makers have been ridiculed, censored and violently opposed.”</p> <p>“Many received death threats, or had their lives taken before their legacy or questions could be accepted as self-evident,” she posted.</p> <p>“I’m hearing many conversations around the amount of censorship friends are experiencing Facebook, Instagram accounts are being removed, shadow banned and numerous YouTube videos deleted.</p> <p>“Do you agree in the need for cultivating open, informed and respectful conversations about the mainstream narratives?</p> <p>“How do we encourage our conscience-barometers and humanitarians to courageously express themselves?</p> <p>“May we continue to support those who practice freedom of speech and shed light on the uncomfortable truths that challenges us.”</p> <p>She concluded with yet another quote – this time by Albert Einstein – “blind belief in authority is the greatest enemy of truth.”</p> <p>This isn't the first time Lucas has caused controversy, as late last year she revealed she had refused a COVID-19 test on the set of her film Bosch &amp; Rockit, instead claiming her immune system was strong from how she "lives and eats and thinks".</p> <p>“I gave my duty of care of what I could offer to respect everyone’s health and maintain my own health, and I shared that, and I opted out of doing the COVID test,” she said at the time.</p>

TV

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Anti-vaxxer Isabel Lucas opts out of mandatory COVID test in Byron

<p>Isabel Lucas recently revealed she “opted out” of coronavirus testing while on the set of her recent film with Luke Hemsworth in Byron Bay. </p> <p>However, her confession has surprised producers of the Mose Bosch &amp; Rockit, with testing being mandatory for all those working on the production.</p> <p>"Every cast and crew member was required to sign an acknowledgement that they would adhere to the COVID-Safe guidelines adopted by the production, which included an acknowledgement that they had been COVID-tested prior to principal photography," Black Pearl Productions said in a statement, seen by <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.theage.com.au/culture/movies/isabel-lucas-opted-out-of-covid-testing-on-byron-bay-film-20201010-p563vt.html?fbclid=IwAR1Qq7wEqgwh9LA8kAZo6ja1JXXxZWyer2NkR4YPEU8oXO3Z3ir0FKXfYzU" target="_blank">The Age</a>.</p> <p>"Isabel's recent statement that she was not tested is inconsistent with the producers' understanding that she had complied with the COVID-Safe guidelines adopted by the production."</p> <p>The 35-year-old, who has openly spoken about her anti-vax beliefs in the past, made the admission on an American wellbeing podcast, Alfa Vedic, on September 25.</p> <p>"I gave my duty of care of what I could offer to respect everyone's health and maintain my own health, and I shared that, and I opted out of doing the COVID test," she said.</p> <p>"Everyone was really respectful and really honouring of, like, how to maintain health while this very tricky time is underway. But I needed to do that. I felt like it was quite an understanding, relaxed group of people."</p> <p>While it’s understood no one working on the production was infected with the virus, the move has concerned industry insiders as due to privacy restrictions around medical records, it’s on the actor to prove they’ve been tested.</p>

Beauty & Style

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“Miracle girl” Milli Lucas contracts cancer for third time

<p>A patient of neurosurgeon Dr Charlie Teo dubbed the “miracle girl” has had to undergo another lifesaving surgery after her cancer returned.</p> <p>The family of Amelia “Milli” Lucas have revealed the young girl has been diagnosed with cancer for a third time and is now in hospital undergoing risky brain surgery.</p> <p>The first time Milly battled terminal cancer was when she was nine years old and was expected to live for only 12 weeks.</p> <p>After experimental surgery, 98 per cent of her cancer was removed.</p> <p>She has now been alive and healthy for years since her original diagnosis, causing her recovery to be dubbed a miracle.</p> <p>But now, her concerned parents revealed the tragic news yesterday, that her third diagnosis has led to more treatment.</p> <p>Milli underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy when she first diagnosed with a very aggressive brain tumour, a Grade VI Glioblastoma, in 2016.</p> <p>However, in May 2019, the cancer once again reared its ugly head.</p> <p>Due to the cancer being in her brain, many doctors refused to operate as the tumour was in a high-risk “no-go zone”.</p> <p>“We were devastated when Perth Children’s Hospital (PCH) put Milli into Palliative Care and advised that there was nothing more that they could do,” the family wrote on their website, Team Millstar.</p> <p>“PCH advised that they were unable to operate, and the chemotherapy Milli had received in addition to radiotherapy was not working and no further treatment was possible.”</p> <p>But thanks to renowned neurosurgeon Dr Charlie Teo who agreed to operate on Milli, 98 per cent of her cancer was removed.</p> <p>The remaining two per cent was removed by doctors in Germany.</p> <p>And now that the cancer has returned, she’s back on the operating table with Dr Teo.</p> <p>“Milli is currently in Sydney with her man Charlie again,” the family said in a statement.</p> <p>“She had surgery on Monday &amp; the disease was removed.</p> <p>“Milli went back to surgery on Tuesday to release pressure. She remains in ICU and has another operation scheduled for Monday.</p> <p>“We ask that you keep her in your thoughts &amp; further updates will be provided when possible”.</p>

Caring

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The actor who was supposed to play Indiana Jones

<p>It’s hard to picture anyone else in Indiana Jones’ boots, but according to the men behind the films, Steven Spielberg and George Lucas, Harrison Ford wasn’t their first choice. In fact,<em> Magnum P.I.</em> star Tom Selleck was originally destined for the role, however he was unable to accept the offer due to previous contractual agreements.</p> <p><img width="498" height="285" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/29248/image__498x285.jpg" alt="tom selleck" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>“I’d done the pilot for <em>Magnum</em> [<em>P.I.</em>], and they offered me a screen test, Steven Spielberg and George Lucas,” Selleck told David Letterman. “They called me a week later [...] and they offered it to me and I said, ‘Well I’ve done this pilot,’ and they said, ‘Oh we’re not worried.’”</p> <p>However, even after doing his screen test (which you can watch <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vUXCXCKbXb8&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">here</span></strong></a>), it wasn’t meant to be for Selleck. “The more they held out the offer and talked to the network the more the network said no […] so I had to kind of move on.”</p> <p>In an interview with <a href="http://www.empireonline.com/movies/features/indiana-jones-making-raiders-lost-ark/" target="_blank"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Empire</span></em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> magazine</span></strong></a>, Lucas revealed Ford was essentially their last-resort choice. “We were running short of time and Steven said, ‘There’s always Harrison.’”</p> <p>“I doubted he’d go for a three-picture deal — he didn’t want to on Star Wars. And we had three pictures. Steven said to try anyway. I went to Harrison and he read the script and said, ‘Yeah, I’ll do a three-picture deal. I’d love to.’”</p> <p>Tell us in the comments below, could you imagine Tom Selleck as Indiana Jones? Or are you glad they ‘resorted’ to Ford?</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/movies/2016/09/film-stars-surprising-jobs-before-they-were-famous/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Film stars’ surprising jobs before they were famous</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/movies/2016/03/harrison-ford-new-indiana-jones-movie/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Harrison Ford set to return for fifth Indiana Jones movie</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/movies/2016/02/details-on-indiana-jones-5/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">What we know about the next Indiana Jones film</span></em></strong></a></p>

News

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How to live passionately – no matter your age

<p>Author Isabel Allende, 71, has always lived her life passionately. In this fascinating and inspiring <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/isabelle_allende_how_to_live_passionately_no_matter_your_age?language=en" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">TED Talk</span></strong></a> she shares the fears she has when it comes to ageing and offers great advice on how we can all live with passion at all stages of life.</p> <p>This video will make you laugh as well as seriously think about how you can increase your happiness by living your life to the fullest.</p> <p><em>Source: TED</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/05/100-year-old-model-stars-in-new-ad-for-vogues-100th-anniversary/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">100-year-old model stars in new ad for Vogue’s 100th anniversary</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/04/spending-time-with-grandkids-keeps-you-young-at-heart/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Spending time with grandkids keeps you young at heart</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/retirement-life/2016/04/oldest-bridesmaid-walks-down-the-aisle-at-100/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">100-year-old bridesmaid is warming hearts</span></em></strong></a></p>

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