Mark Hughes Foundation co-founder expresses his gratitude for support in the Upper Hunter

But, even that didn’t prepare him for the confrontations he faced off the playing paddock.

In 2014, the talented two-time premiership-winning three-quarter was diagnosed with brain cancer.

And, since then, the Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) – formed by Mark and wife Kirralee – has worked around the clock to raise much-needed funds for research, while creating awareness and supporting patients and their families at the same time.

The organisation’s coffers were boosted by another $1000 recently, courtesy of a combined endeavour featuring Belltrees, Aberdeen, Denman and Muswellbrook South public schools.

So appreciative of the gesture, and that of coordinator Lauren Cartwright, Mr Hughes popped into Muswellbrook on Monday to personally say “thank you”.  

“It’s wonderful to be here [today],” he said.

“Thanks to all the students and teachers, as well as the mums and dads, for your efforts.

“I was quite amazed to hear that a combined total of $1000 was raised – just from wearing beanies.

“It’s very much appreciated.

“I’d especially like to thank [Muswellbrook South] teacher Lauren Cartwright.

“It’s people like her dad, and people like myself, who really need the help.

“And, all of you said you wanted to do that by taking part in Beanies for Brain Cancer.

“At the Mark Hughes Foundation, we’re trying to find answers to fix the problem as fast as we can.

“The only way we can do it is to raise money to fund research.

“Every cent helps make a difference.”

Mrs Cartwright said the MHF was a “cause extremely close to her heart”.

“My dad has brain cancer – and is doing as well as can be expected,” she explained.

“I’m super grateful to the Mark Hughes Foundation; and its brain care nurses.

“They’ve helped greatly with my father.

“Even though some of the schools have raised money for Beanies for Brain Cancer before, we’ve never coordinated it as a group.

“So, I’m hoping to get more on board next year.”