Jane McGrath's legacy lives on

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Breast cancer tragically claims more than 2500 Australians each year and yesterday it took the life of the courageous Jane McGrath.

The wife of former cricketer Glenn McGrath died at home with her family by her side after an 11-year battle with the disease.

A few months ago, Today Tonight host Anna Coren spoke to Jane and Glenn in what turned out to be their final television interview together.

"I look at the kids and I think I am going nowhere I just will do everything I've got to do, we push through, they make you smile every day," Jane said.

"I try not to be frightened by it anymore, you've just got to face your fears, deal with them and watch them melt away."

Jane faced her fears with a beaming smile and a brave public face that humbled those who met her.

As tributes pour in from around Australia her best friend Tracy Bevan gave a public thanks.

"On behalf of my friend Jane McGrath, thank you so much Australia," she said.

"Thank you so much for your support and for your lovely messages to Glenn, James and Holly."

The McGrath Foundation is an organisation Jane established to fund trained breast care nurses.

She was only too aware of their critical role in recovery.

"It was a familiar face every time I went for treatment, chemo and radiotherapy and things and if I was feeling unsure about something or worried at home I could give them a call and they would answer my questions," Jane said.

For years Jane fought breast cancer, then a secondary outbreak in her hip. Months later it spread again to her brain.

Too distraught to talk on camera, today Glenn released a statement.

"I am devastated by the loss of my beautiful wife Jane," he said.

"She was my best friend."

Related information

You can support the McGrath Foundation by making a donation, visit www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au for more information.

Yahoo!7 News has full coverage of Jane's passing including tributes.

You can leave your message of condolence on this page.