By Esther Lauaki
Tributes are flowing for Diggers Rest netballer Katie Dregers who has been remembered for her selflessness.
The 26-year-old died last Tuesday, just weeks after her birthday, surrounded by family after battling a rare and aggressive form of brain and spinal cancer.
A brain tumour was discovered nearly a year ago when Katie fell at work. In a devastating blow in August, another tumour, believed to be where the cancer originated, was found in her spine.
Close friend Erin Surkitt said Katie brought people together with her warmth and charisma.
“She always has a smile on her face, even when times were getting tough,” Ms Surkitt told
Star Weekly. “She was a selfless person and was always the life of the party.”
Before her health deteriorated, Katie had been accepted into the Australian Defence Force. “Katie was humbled that she had the opportunity to serve her country,” Ms Surkitt said.
Friends, family and the wider community will don blue guernseys at the Melbourne Marathon on October 14 in Katie’s honour.
An online crowdfunding campaign has raised more than $8000 but donations are still being sought for Katie’s family.
Donate: bit.ly/2LiPUpI
