The 40-year-old mother of two was diagnosed with breast cancer in February last year and a tragically short time after her initial diagnosis, was told the cancer had spread to her bones creating tumours in her spine and pelvis.

Mrs McDonnell said the news of her terminal illness and receiving a prognosis of just three years came as a huge shock.

"It's the biggest regret of my life but we just caught it too late," she said. "As soon as we knew, really all I could think about was the kids."

After braving a horrific year of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment in 2014, she is focused on creating as many wonderful memories as possible with family and friends.

"Amanda's Army of Angels," a group of supporters, has rallied together to organise a trivia night fundraiser for the family at the Hellenic Club, Woden, on Friday.

Known as "the organiser" among friends, Mrs McDonnell said it had taken some convincing to sit back and be the guest of honour.

"I was reluctant to be in the spotlight about it because there are other mums out there just like me," she said.

"But I have a beautiful bunch of people around me and they want to help."

The money raised will be put in a trust for the family to pay for ongoing medical costs and maybe a trip away.

Mrs McDonnell said her six-year-old daughter Thea and Ninja Turtles-obsessed three-year-old Hamish have their hearts set on a Queensland holiday.

"All Thea dreams of is Queensland," she said. "It's all the theme parks, but really anywhere relaxing would be nice."

Nikki Randall said it was remarkable how her good friend remained such a beacon of happiness to others throughout such a tough journey with cancer.

"Amanda has always been the first to jump in and help those around her," she said. "We've all come together from different parts of Amanda's life to put on this event and that has been really special."

The sold-out trivia evening will be a huge helping hand for the McDonnell family. Raffle tickets are still on sale and donations are welcome.

For details head to facebook.com/events/822214587825021 or email amanda.trivia@gmail.com.