My heart feels sad....just really, really sad.  Today someone I never personally knew passed away, losing her life to breast cancer......after an eleven year battle.

For those of you who don't know her, her name is Jane McGrath, married to our Aussie adored cricketer Glenn.  She was diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of only 31, and against the odds survived.  She went on to marry the love of her life Glenn, and after being told she was unable to bear children, they had two beautiful children of their own.  Throughout her life Jane became the public face of the battle against breast cancer.  Jane and Glenn formed the McGrath Foundation, a charity to help raise breast cancer awareness, to provide support and educate young women about the disease, and establish and expand the role of breast care nurses.  They have raised millions of dollars over the years.

Since her initial diagnosis Jane has again faced her battle with cancer twice.  Throughout this time thousands of Australians have shared her journey. Together with Glenn, she has shared her feelings publicly on a  few occassions, always with courage, grace, dignity and even humour.  Her beautiful smile and positive personalty would simply shine through.  She was adored by many.  The depth of her love of life and for her family so plain and real for all to see...... she said there was nothing she wouldn't do or become to stay with her family.

Jane passed away this morning at the age of 42 with her husband and children by her side.  For those like myself who have been touched by cancer in a very personal way, and for so many people, she was a ray of hope and inspiration.  But in my eyes, Jane felt like my friend.  I know that she achieved so much in her short life.......and was loved by so many.

But for now I just cry............. and feel so very, very sad.