On October 3, Australian TV host Fiona MacDonald shared the heartbreaking news of her passing at age 67.
This announcement came through an Instagram post written by her sister, Kylie. It confirmed that Fiona had died the night before, after a long battle with motor neurone disease (MND).
In her poignant farewell, Fiona wrote, “Farewell my friends. My sister Kylie is posting this because I have left the building — Hopefully I’m looking down from a cloud.” She reflected on her final moments, noting that they were peaceful, surrounded by loved ones. “The boys, Harry and Rafe, and Kylie stayed with me to say goodbye,” she added.
Fiona expressed relief at leaving her “tortured body.”
She shared the challenges she faced in her last months, including the inability to swallow normal food. “The tube feeding that should have sustained me didn’t work,” she explained. “My gut couldn’t tolerate any of the multiple brands of protein drinks.”
The beloved TV personality, known for her roles on the Australian children’s series Wombat and as the host of It’s a Knockout, detailed her decline since her diagnosis in 2021. “I’ve been slowly starving and growing weaker,” she shared, citing terrible back pain due to muscle weakness.
Transitioning from humor to despair, Fiona made a difficult choice.
“After much soul searching, I decided to cease all medical supports and go into hospital for end-of-life palliative care.” She emphasized that it took great courage to make such decisions, especially for someone who cherished life.
Fiona concluded her message with a hopeful note. “Let’s not call it goodbye; I hope to see you again on the other side,” she wrote. She included a touching blessing, wishing that “the wind be always at your back” and “may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.”
Fiona MacDonald’s legacy extends beyond her television career.
She passionately raised funds for MND research after her diagnosis, aiming to find a cure for the disease. Through her “I Am Making a Difference” page, she raised over $223,000 AUD (almost $153,000 USD). She embarked on her “Big Lap” challenge, driving 15,500 kilometers around Australia to support research.
In a recent episode of Australian Story, Fiona spoke candidly about her journey with MND.
She used a computerized voice to communicate, describing the relentless progression of the disease. “It steals the power of all muscles inch by inch until you can’t walk, can’t hold hands, can’t talk, swallow, or breathe,” she shared, highlighting the grim reality of her diagnosis.
Fiona’s resilience shone through her struggles. She aimed to create awareness about MND and the urgent need for research. She is survived by her two sons, Harry and Rafe, and her sisters Kylie and Jacki, who also has a background in television.
Fiona MacDonald’s courageous battle with MND has touched many lives.
Her unwavering spirit and commitment to raising awareness will leave a lasting impact. As her friends and family remember her, they will carry her love and laughter in their hearts.
In her final message, Fiona encouraged those she loved to remember her fondly. “I carry your love and laughter with me,” she wrote, leaving behind a legacy of hope and resilience. Through her efforts, she has inspired countless others to join the fight against motor neurone disease.