Conversations A Dad's mission to save his daughter, and conquer cancer
Jul 23, 2025
Matt Dun, a biomedical scientist and co-founder of the charity RUN DIPG, shares his heart-wrenching journey of seeking treatments for his daughter, Josie, who was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. He discusses his transition from researching childhood leukemia to focusing on DIPG, the emotional struggles of a parent in crisis, and the solace he found in running. Matt highlights the importance of innovative therapies, fundraising efforts, and creating family traditions that celebrate Josie's memory while fighting for hope and advocacy in the battle against pediatric brain cancer.
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Life Lessons from Submarines
- Matt Dun shared his experience serving on submarines including the claustrophobic but adventurous life.
- He described a life lesson learned about putting others first in tight, shared living quarters.
First Signs of Josie's Illness
- Matt noticed unusual clumsiness in his daughter Josie and picked her up early from daycare.
- This was the beginning of recognising serious symptoms leading to her diagnosis.
Receiving Josie's DIPG Diagnosis
- Josie was diagnosed with DIPG after an MRI showed a brainstem tumor.
- Matt and Phoebe learned the prognosis was terminal and that treatment was mainly palliative.