Terminally Ill Woman Sells Her Remaining Time to Raise Cancer Awareness in Emotional Auction

Emily Lahey: A Powerful Reminder of Life’s Preciousness

At just 32, Emily Lahey is battling terminal cancer, but instead of retreating into despair, she has chosen to turn her experience into a moving public project aimed at raising awareness and funds for cancer research. Her story shared through the initiative “Time to Live,” encourages us all to reflect on how we live our lives.

On a sunny Saturday morning at Carriageworks in Sydney, the lively atmosphere of a farmers’ market contrasts sharply with the emotional gravity of Emily’s project. Participants gather not just to meet Emily but to engage in a poignant exchange of time and stories. Each person is invited to sit beside Emily for three minutes, during which a countdown clock ticks down. Some use this time for quiet reflection, while others engage her in conversation, sharing their own experiences with cancer and loss.

Emily, who was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer called NUT carcinoma at the age of 27, exemplifies resilience. Initially misdiagnosed, her cancer was discovered only after she began losing vision in her left eye. Traditional treatments failed her, and it wasn’t until she accessed an advanced treatment from the U.S. through a compassionate government scheme that she found hope. This journey illustrates the vital importance of ongoing cancer research—an effort she passionately supports through this project.

“Without research, I wouldn’t be here,” Emily reflects, underscoring the significance of funding for innovative treatments. Her involvement in “Time to Live” is a testament to her bravery and a call to action for continued support in the fight against cancer. The Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF), which initiated this project, aims to fund cutting-edge research that can save lives, just like Emily’s.

Through a video shared with participants, Emily recounts her journey, celebrating milestones like her 30th birthday and her wedding to Jason, whom she met just weeks before her diagnosis. These moments are precious reminders that life, even in the face of adversity, can be filled with joy, love, and laughter. She describes her remaining time as “not a clock running out, but a precious gift not to be wasted,” a sentiment that resonates deeply with everyone who meets her.

As participants leave the experience, they carry with them not just the memories of their time with Emily but also a renewed perspective on life. The emotional conversations sparked by this encounter serve as a reminder of the fragility of existence and the importance of making each moment count.

Emily’s journey invites us to reflect on our own lives. Are we making the most of our time? As one participant poignantly shared, this experience encourages a deeper conversation about life and the urgency to live fully.

In a touching gesture, Emily hands each participant an envelope with a card that reads: “I’ve given you my time. Now it’s your time to give that gift to someone else.” This simple yet profound message encapsulates the essence of her project—encouraging others to embrace life, cherish relationships, and support the critical research needed to combat cancer.

Emily Lahey’s courageous journey serves as an emotional and inspiring reminder of the power of community, compassion, and the relentless pursuit of hope amidst the challenges of life.

Credits

Client: Australian Cancer Research Foundation
CEO: Kerry Strydom
General Manager, Fundraising & Marketing: Carly Du Toit
Marketing & Communications Manager: Isabelle Gagnet
Marketing Coordinator: Rachael Murphy
Designer: Sarah Holmes

Creative Agency: The Ministry for Communication & The Arts
Creative Partner: Nathan Lennon
Creative Partner: David Gibson
Managing Partner: Sophie Gibson

Production
Director: Tony Prescott
Producer: Dinusha Ratnaweera
Camera Operator: Miller Best
Camera Operator: Max McLachlan
Camera Assistant: Molly Sutherland
Data Wrangler: Aiden Emery
Sound Recordist: Richard Teague
Sound Assistant: Sally Hitchings
Event Audio/Visual: DPLR
BTS Coverage: Nat Ma

Post Production
Colourist: Myles Conti at Xenon-Post
Music Studio: Onyx Music
Composer: Darren Lim
Sound Design and Mix: Joe Mount
Stills Retoucher: Alex Reznick

PR Agency: Good PR
Senior PR & Events Manager: Nina Willoughby