VICTORIA

Lesley

Diagnosed with a large prolactinoma in 2005, Lesley’s journey has included multiple surgeries, radiotherapy, and ongoing treatment for acromegaly and related conditions. Her experiences with frequent GP visits, intense symptoms, and the eventual diagnosis of her pituitary tumour have fuelled her dedication to raising awareness about pituitary conditions.

Lesley joined the APF to help others who, like her, might be navigating the complexities of these invisible conditions and to spread the word about the support networks available.

NEW SOUTH WALES

Sean

Originally from Ireland and now thriving in Sydney, Sean works with Qantas in the aviation sector and teaches piano on the side.

Diagnosed with Acromegaly in December 2023, Sean underwent successful surgery in January and is now enjoying normal IGF1 levels.  Fun fact: Sean is a triplet!

Ania

A child star of 2001’s teen drama Cybergirl, Ania went on to work with traumatised children with a number of international NGOs. After years of searching for answers, she was just 35 when diagnosed with Cushing’s. She joins Tim and Sean as a NSW State Social Coordinator organising the events and get togethers in NSW.

To get in touch with Tim, Sean or Ania, simply email nsw@pituitary.asn.au

QUEENSLAND

Sarah

Sarah’s journey with the APF began when her daughter was diagnosed with acquired Panhypopituitarism in 2021. The initial shock of her diagnosis, and the subsequent search for information, led Sarah to us.

Inspired by this, Sarah now volunteers as a Social Coordinator, dedicated to connecting pituitary community members, raising awareness, and addressing the challenges of invisible illnesses. 

With a Fine Arts background, and extensive experience in creative production and media, Sarah brings a unique blend of storytelling and logistics to her State Coordinator role.

Mia

Mia’s path to understanding the pituitary gland came when her son was diagnosed with Multiple Pituitary Hormone Disorder at age three.  The overwhelming journey became more manageable with the support and connection found through the APF. 

As one of Queensland’s Social Events Coordinators, Mia is passionate about fostering in-person connections and building a supportive community for families and individuals navigating similar challenges.

To get in touch with Sarah or Mia, simply email qld@pituitary.asn.au

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Mel

Mel’s journey with the APF began after her daughter was diagnosed with Congenital Hypopituitarism.  Despite a challenging start, and weeks of uncertainty, her daughter is now 18 months old, thriving, and is full of joy.

Mel joined the APF to help others on similar journeys to connect and build a community, as she knows firsthand how isolating it can feel to navigate rare pituitary conditions.

Bianca

Based in Western Australia, Bianca works in Recruitment and HR and has a passion for travel.  After being diagnosed with a pituitary condition, and finding invaluable support through the APF, she’s motivated to give back to the community that helped her.

Bianca is excited to use her experience and passion to support others facing similar challenges.

To get in touch with Mel or Bianca, simply email wa@pituitary.asn.au

TASMANIA

Hilary

Hilary lives in beautiful Bellerive with her husband and their two children.

Balancing her love for Tasmanian bushwalking, yoga, reading, and dumplings, Hilary has recently ventured into entrepreneurship with her own small business.

With over 20 years in government roles, Hilary is excited to connect with APF members and is looking forward to organising the Tassie social catch ups.

To get in touch with Hilary, simply email tas@pituitary.asn.au

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Rachel

Rachel is a single mother to three beautiful daughters.  She has worked in the banking industry for the last 17 years, and she’s also an avid photographer.   

Back in August 2021, Rachel was diagnosed with a Macroadenoma, a tumour on the pituitary gland, which needed immediate surgery.  Her recovery has been long and challenging.  To learn more about her condition, she joined a specialist pituitary group from overseas, which she’s found very valuable.  

Rachel has been involved in many not-for-profit organisations over the years, however, the Australian Pituitary Foundation is a cause very close to her heart and one that she’s very passionate about.

To get in touch with Rachel, simply email sa@pituitary.asn.au