Coen's life was filled with laughter, football, family and an incredible determination that inspired everyone who knew him. Mum Amanda shares her family's journey, the joy Coen brought to those around him and the important role Bear Cottage played in helping them create precious memories together.

In a world filled with laughter and adventure, the story of our amazing 7-and-3⁄4-year-old Coen is a heartbreaking reminder of life’s fragility. Diagnosed with brain cancer at just 15 months old, his journey was marked by incredible courage, resilience and an unwavering love for our family. His time at Bear Cottage became a place of comfort, connection and cherished memories during some of our family’s most difficult moments.

Coen was a happy, bright boy who adored the Cronulla Sharks. He proudly wore his Sharks jersey, cheered for his favourite players, attended games with his family and loved playing footy and Oztag with his mates. Away from the field, he enjoyed Mario Kart, collecting Pokémon cards from his favourite shop, Swap ITT, and singing along to car karaoke with his family.

He especially treasured time with his little brother, Logan. Whether riding bikes, playing with cars and trucks or simply being silly together, they shared a special bond. Coen’s zest for life and love for his family made even the simplest moments meaningful.

After a change in Coen’s mobility as a toddler led to an emergency room visit, we received the devastating diagnosis of Posterior Fossa Ependymoma. Despite the fear and uncertainty that followed, Coen’s resilience and cheeky smile remained.

Over the years, he endured 4 brain surgeries, 3 rounds of radiation, 2 clinical trials and oral chemotherapy, all in the hope of gaining more time. 

Despite the immense toll treatment took on his little body, Coen continued to face each challenge with remarkable bravery.

Amid this turmoil, we were introduced to Bear Cottage in Manly. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed by compassionate staff who understood that caring for Coen also meant caring for our whole family.

For Coen, Bear Cottage felt very different from the sterile hospital environment he had become so familiar with. Its colourful walls, playful decorations and welcoming atmosphere immediately brought a sense of comfort. With the help of the amazing staff, we were able personalise his room with photos of those he loved and all his favourite toys. Even if it meant he may not have been able to fit in the bed. 

We discovered a range of activities and therapies, including art, music, physiotherapy and massage. For the first time in months, we were able to experience moments of relief and normality while knowing Coen was receiving the specialised care he needed. He particularly enjoyed making slime and painting, creating colourful masterpieces that became treasured keepsakes for us.

At Bear Cottage, Coen’s days were filled with laughter, love and experiences tailored to the things he enjoyed most.

One of the highlights was a special night out to watch the Sharks play Manly. Bear Cottage and the Manly football club arranged for Coen and our family to enjoy the game from some of the best seats in a private box.

There were also beach visits, music sessions where Coen sang and played drums and guitar, and even a Christmas in July celebration. During Superhero Week, Coen helped celebrate and fundraise for Bear Cottage and met real-life heroes, including Batman and his Batmobile.

Bear Cottage supported not only Coen, but the entire family. We received care and guidance from the moment we arrived and continued to receive support after Coen’s passing. Logan was included in activities and experiences, helping us maintain a sense of togetherness. Even small touches, such as nursing staff wearing plain clothes rather than hospital uniforms, helped create a more personal and homelike environment.

The support of the social workers was also invaluable. They helped navigate the emotional and practical challenges we faced, provided counselling and connected us with charities and resources to ease financial pressures. They also helped organise Coen’s celebration of life, ensuring it became a fitting tribute to his vibrant personality and the joy he brought to others.

In his final days, Coen was surrounded by family and the caring staff at Bear Cottage. His room was filled with music, stories, laughter and love. We held his hand, shared memories of the happiness he had brought into our lives and whispered words of love, reassuring him that it was okay to let go.

Coen passed away peacefully, surrounded by the warmth of his family’s love.

Although his life was tragically short, Coen’s legacy continues through the memories he created and the lives he touched. His time at Bear Cottage was not simply about facing the end of life; it was about living fully, creating meaningful memories and finding joy and connection during an incredibly difficult time.

Coen’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of compassionate care. Bear Cottage gave Coen and us a place where we could be a family - not simply patients and carers - and where precious moments could be created and treasured.

Coen’s spirit continues to inspire everyone who hears his story, reminding us to cherish the moments we have, celebrate the people we love and hold our loved ones close.