Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of former Senator Derryn Hinch – the first Australian politician to take mesh injured women seriously and a huge support to the global mesh injured community.

Derryn described transvaginal mesh as “one of Australia’s greatest medical scandals” and, using his platform and the courage of his convictions, exposed a scandal that many preferred to ignore. Known as the Human Headline, Derryn was a fearless journalist, a champion for justice, and a true mesh hero.

And he wanted his epitaph to be – He tried. He really did on so many issues.

At a time when mesh injured women were being dismissed, Derryn spoke out on what was then considered a taboo health issue. He listened to mesh-injured women with dignity and respect and used his voice to ensure they were heard.

His advocacy drove the 2018 Australian Senate Inquiry into the devastating impact of vaginal mesh – which Sling The Mesh gave evidence to via satellite link.

Derryn’s kindness, courage, unwavering support, and commitment to speaking truth to power will never be forgotten. He will be greatly missed by the mesh community, the countless women whose voices he helped amplify, and everyone whose lives he touched – including mine.

His legacy will live on in every woman who finally found her voice because he helped make people listen.

Thank you, Derryn. Rest in peace.