AFL legend and Brownlow medallist Ben Cousins has spoken candidly about the profound impact of his father’s terminal diagnosis, revealing he has leaned heavily on Bec Daniher for support through the devastating ordeal.
The West Coast premiership champion joined members of the Daniher family at a FightMND fundraiser ahead of Monday’s Big Freeze at the ’G, united by a heartbreaking shared bond.
Cousins’ father, Bryan, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) a year ago. Bryan famously stood by his son throughout Ben’s highly publicised drug addiction battles and stints in prison.
Speaking at the FightMND gala lunch, an emotional Cousins reflected on how hard the diagnosis hit him and his determination to return the unwavering support his father always gave him.
“Never has it been so important to find a way in some small way to be there for him like he has been for me,” Cousins told 7NEWS.
In the wake of the news, Cousins found an invaluable pillar of strength in Bec Daniher, whose legendary father, Neale, passed away last month following a heroic 13-year battle with MND. Before his passing, Neale raised more than $110 million for the cause and was named the 2025 Australian of the Year.
“To pick up the phone and speak to her on occasions has been really helpful. Just another amazing Daniher,” Cousins said.
Daniher praised the footy great for his openness, emphasizing the vital role of community and connection when navigating the cruel realities of the terminal illness.
“You do need to reach out and ask for help, and it’s just been great to just have those conversations with Ben,” she said.
The fundraising efforts have continued to sweep the nation, inspired by Neale Daniher’s final ethos to “play on.” At Mernda Central College, staff braved freezing water to take the plunge for the cause, cheered on by students.
Among them was teacher Lisa Burich, who lost her own mother to the disease after a four-year battle.
“I knew mum was with me as I was going down the slide,” Burich said. “I’m actually petrified of water and I was like, no, she had MND for four years. This is the least I could do for her.”
For Cousins, witnessing the community unite behind the cause has provided a vital source of comfort and inspiration as his family faces the road ahead.
“It’s the courage to be vulnerable, to face your fears and to stare into them together,” Cousins said.
