Sian Goodsell and her late husband, Jason Goodsell’s story was one of dreams, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. However, their happiness took an unexpected turn when Jason was diagnosed with cancer, casting a shadow of uncertainty over their lives.
Despite the challenges they faced, Sian and Jason forged ahead, determined to cherish every moment together
Sian Goodsell, 34, and partner, Jason Goodsell, 30, were travelling around Australia in February 2017 when he was diagnosed with stage four bowel and liver cancer. Jason had proposed just six days before the shock news.
Jason tragically lost his battle to cancer on the evening of their wedding
Sian was left heartbroken and devastated, trying to come to terms with her unimaginable loss.
In the midst of her grief, she decided to go ahead with IVF creating embryos using Jason’s sperm frozen pre cancer treatment.
Unbelievably, the IVF worked first time – this incredible news brought a glimmer of hope and a renewed sense of purpose to Sian’s life.
A Premature Arrival
Her daughter Matilda’s arrival into the world was marked by both joy and anxiety. Born four months prematurely weighing just 1ibs 2oz, spent 17 weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit. She faced numerous health challenges, requiring specialized care and attention.
‘I stayed at the hospital full-time,’ Sian said.
‘It was hard not having Jason there, to not have someone who was going through what I was.’
On May 17, 2023, Matilda was discharged from the NICU. ‘It was exciting and overwhelming to be coming home,’ Sian said.
Matilda is now home and thriving.
Strength and Resilience
Sian’s strength and resilience shone through as she navigated the challenges of being a single parent to a premature baby. Despite the overwhelming circumstances, she displayed an indomitable spirit.
Sian’s determination to honor her late husband’s memory and provide Matilda with a loving and nurturing environment became her driving force.
Sian, a nurse, from Sydney, Australia, said: ‘I would love to say she looks like me, but she’s the female version of her father. I tell her stories about Jason and I everyday, and talk about what he was like. I always keep his memory alive and have photos throughout the house. Tilly will always know her dad.
Sian went on to explain: ‘She’ll pull a face and look just like her dad.’
‘It’s tiring being a single mum, but it’s the best thing I ever did, and I would do it over and over to have her here.’
A Bright Future
Today, Matilda continues to grow stronger with each passing day. The journey has not been easy, but Sian’s commitment to creating a bright future for Matilda has been unwavering.
Sian Goodsell’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of love
Life can present us with unimaginable challenges, testing our strength and resilience in ways we never thought possible. Sian’s journey serves as an inspiration to us all, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and the potential for a brighter tomorrow. Sian Goodsell and her daughter Matilda’s remarkable journey is one such tale that inspires and uplifts all our hearts.
