Six months ago, A Current Affair introduced viewers to Dave and Desiree Mills, who have a large family of ten children. This loving family faced a harrowing challenge when their youngest son, Jonah, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a particularly aggressive form of childhood cancer. For over a year, Jonah and Desiree were away from their home in Grenfell, located in western New South Wales, as they navigated his treatment in Sydney—approximately five hours from home.
During this difficult period, Dave, a self-employed tradesman, was left to care for their seven other children in their partially renovated house. The family’s situation became even more dire when doctors delivered the distressing news of additional cancer found in Jonah. Recognising the struggle, viewers of A Current Affair rallied to support the Mills family, contributing generous donations that allowed Dave to step away from work and focus on creating cherished memories with Jonah and the rest of his family. Desiree expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating it was astonishing that so many could extend kindness to people they had never met.
With the support received, Dave cherished the opportunity to spend valuable time with Jonah, treasuring every moment. The family hoped to see Jonah well enough to attend his first NRL game, something that delighted them as devoted Parramatta Eels fans. Half of their children are even named after Eels players—Jonah’s middle name pays homage to Shaun Lane, while older brother Cayless is named after legend Nathan Cayless.
Although Jonah did not make it to an Eels game, A Current Affair had a surprise in store for the family. The Mills were granted a trip to Sydney for the upcoming State of Origin decider, a moment spearheaded by Eels and NSW superstar Mitch Moses, who personally contacted the family to share the uplifting news.
The story of the Mills family not only highlights the struggles faced by families dealing with childhood cancer but also the power of community support and love in moments of despair. While they may be far from the famed field of their beloved Eels, the family’s unwavering spirit and camaraderie continue to shine brightly through their adversity. Watching the full story reveals the profound impact of community kindness, as well as the family’s enduring hope.