In a heartfelt update shared via Instagram, Australian model Erin McNaught reflected on her son Obi’s health journey as she celebrated a significant milestone: one year since the toddler was declared “cancer-free.” The post, which McNaught published on 12 June, marks a poignant moment for the family, following Obi’s diagnosis and treatment for a rare brain tumour last year.
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Obi, now 19 months old, underwent surgery to remove a sizeable tumour in June 2025. McNaught, who is engaged to record producer Stasi Kotaras, expressed her gratitude, stating, “We are one of the lucky families. So far, Obi has remained cancer free, and we count our lucky stars every single day.” Her message not only conveyed joy but also a continued awareness of the uncertain nature of cancer, mentioning that routine MRIs, conducted under general anaesthesia every four months, are essential as the tumour has a high likelihood of recurrence.
In her candid Instagram post, McNaught shared insights into the emotional and physical toll that such a diagnosis can impose on families. She noted her intention to provide an authentic glimpse into life with a sick child, aiming to raise awareness of the challenges faced by many. “I have to stress — we are one of the lucky families,” she reiterated, while acknowledging that numerous other children and their families do not share the same fortune.
The model’s update included poignant memories of Obi’s treatment journey. McNaught shared a series of photos detailing Obi’s experience, from his first MRI scans to his joyful moments post-treatment. One particularly impactful image depicted a scan of Obi’s brain tumour, identified as an atypical choroid plexus papilloma (aCPP), a rare type of growth recognised for its perplexing nature, sitting somewhere between benign and malignant classifications.
The model reflected upon the harrowing aspect of Obi’s health crisis, noting that the surgery to insert a drain to alleviate fluid build-up in his brain ultimately “saved his life.” She recounted the surgery as an “utterly terrifying” experience, revealing that Obi required multiple blood transfusions, emphasising the alarming complexity of aCPPs, which are known for their rich blood supply.
Throughout the post, McNaught shared not only the struggles but also the triumphant moments of recovery. Visuals of Obi with his father reading beside him in the hospital, alongside tender images of the toddler being comforted by McNaught through breastfeeding, illustrated the love and support surrounding him during this difficult time. One particularly joyful video showed Obi’s excitement as he spotted a helicopter flying overhead, embodying the childlike wonder that still remained amidst their challenges.
This one-year mark since Obi’s diagnosis has prompted McNaught to reflect internally and to extend empathy to families facing similar struggles. The model highlighted the emotional impact of meeting other families during their journey, some of whom are still battling unfavourable circumstances. In solidarity, she tagged the Brainchild Foundation and the Queensland Children’s Hospital Foundation to encourage support for children affected by brain cancer. Through her advocacy, she hopes to unite the community in fighting against childhood cancer.
Beyond Obi, McNaught is also a mother of two other boys, Evander and Ennio, from her previous marriage to UK rapper Example. Balancing motherhood alongside the demands of a public-facing career, she continues to impart strength to her family through both challenges and celebrations.
In closing, McNaught’s Instagram post resonates with a message of hope, gratitude, and activism. She cherishes every moment with her son, emphasising their collective resilience and the preciousness of everyday life. Her dedication to highlighting both the struggles and victories serves as a moving reminder to others about the importance of compassion and support in the face of adversity.