Stuart Melville’s life was turned upside down one year ago, when he was diagnosed with an inoperable colorectal cancer.
The 43-year-old father of three from Queensland had one simple but personal wish – to wear an Olympic gold medal.
His one dream came true thanks to charity Dreams2Live4 and Olympic champion Ariarne Titmus, who sent them her treasured Tokyo and Paris 400-metre swimming gold medals.
“The reason why I want to see this and hold it, I just wanted to kind of imagine what it would be like having this around my neck and, you know, almost indulge for a moment,” Stuart said.
“Imagine if I was like, you know, on the podium having received it.”
The swimming legend, who is a supporter of the charity, said that making Stuart’s dream come true was a small but meaningful act for her.
“It’s easy for us to be able to do this and hopefully it gives you a little bit of something,” Titmus said.
“It absolutely does. It means a lot. It definitely means a lot,” Stuart replied.
“And look, even, you know, I’ve always wanted to sort of see and hold an Olympic medal, but, you know, now it makes a big difference. So I really appreciate it.”
Stuart made this his one wish, as the sacrifice, resilience and determination it takes to compete in the Olympics has inspired his own cancer battle.
“I’ll keep you in my prayers and wish you all the best,” Titmus told him.
“Thank you. I really appreciate it,” Stuart replied.
Images: 7News
