Your 2025 Westfield Marion Local Hero is:

Sophie Edwards

Jodi Lee Bowel Cancer Foundation

Resilient. Inspiring. Empowering.

Sophie is a cancer survivor, determined to help others facing similar battles by sharing her story. At the age of 34, she was diagnosed with stage three bowel cancer, and has since endured 16 rounds of chemotherapy, five weeks of radiation, fertility treatment and numerous surgeries. 

Now in remission, Sophie is an ambassador for the Jodi Lee Bowel Cancer Foundation. 

“I understand the emotional and physical challenges cancer brings,” says Sophie. The foundation’s mission to raise awareness, promote early detection, and support those affected resonates with me deeply.” 
Sophie continues to face the lasting effects of cancer, yet she remains committed to helping others avoid the struggles she has faced.  

For example, as the face of the foundation’s ‘View Your Poo’ campaign she encourages people to speak to their GP if they notice blood in their poo and to be aware of bowel cancer symptoms. Recognising symptoms and acting quickly can be lifesaving, because if detected early, up to 99% of bowel cancers can be successfully treated.  
“By working with the foundation, I hope to contribute to its efforts to save lives and provide hope, support, and valuable information to those impacted by cancer,” says Sophie.  

She adds, “The collateral damage continues, as I live with lingering side effects like fatigue, chronic pain, and emotional scars that aren’t always visible. Despite these obstacles, I remain determined to live fully and support others through their own battles.”  

The $20,000 grant will be used to develop and deliver a Tik Tok-based education and awareness campaign targeted to young Australians.

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We’d like to thank and acknowledge our finalists who will receive a $5K grant for the organisation they represent...

Annabel Bower from Miles Apart Foundation

After her son Miles was stillborn, Annabel founded The Miles Apart Foundation to support grieving parents and raise awareness about baby loss. Through her book ‘Miles Apart’ and collaborations with healthcare organisations, she aims to increase understanding and awareness of baby loss, and in turn develop better support for families experiencing bereavement.

Leanne Murphy from Story Dogs

Through Story Dogs, a charity that helps primary school children become confident, lifelong readers, Leanne improves students’ literacy. By coordinating a team of volunteers - who sit with children as they read to dogs in a welcoming, non-judgemental setting - Leanne benefits not just the students, but also their families and the entire community.

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If you need support, please phone Lifeline: 13 11 14

Recognising all our 2025 nominees

[View all of the Westfield Marion nominees and their organisations.]