Key Highlights
- Megan Bhari’s story of brain cancer and fundraising for a children’s charity raised national attention.
- Believe in Magic, the charity founded by Megan and her mother Jean O’Brien, attracted celebrity support but was later exposed as fraudulent.
- The Mother of All Cons on BBC Two investigates the case, revealing inconsistencies and doubts about Megan’s health claims.
- Jean O’Brien has never been charged with any criminal offense related to the scandal but is believed to be living in France.
From Promising Charity to Scandal
“You might think this is new, but it’s not.” Jean O’Brien and her daughter Megan Bhari were once the faces of Believe in Magic, a charity that aimed to provide magical experiences for seriously ill children. The story began innocently enough; Megan’s claimed battle with brain cancer resonated deeply, even landing support from One Direction, who were among the celebrity supporters.
The Rise and Fall
In 2015, then-Prime Minister David Cameron praised Megan’s efforts at a Downing Street reception, calling her “extraordinary.” But behind the scenes, questions were brewing. Parents began to notice inconsistencies in the details of Megan’s health struggles and fundraising activities. In 2017, regulators launched an inquiry into Believe in Magic after parents uncovered that both Megan and Jean were on a Disney World holiday while claiming to be receiving critical medical treatment.
The Truth Unveiled
An inquest found no evidence of the brain tumour that had defined Megan’s public persona. Instead, it revealed she suffered from fatty liver disease and opioid addiction. The Charity Commission’s report highlighted serious issues with governance, record-keeping, and financial management. A safeguarding review suggested possible Munchausen syndrome by proxy, but this was never formally diagnosed.
Where Is Jean Now?
Jean O’Brien has consistently denied any wrongdoing. She claims she loved her daughter deeply and denies ever harming her in any way. Despite no criminal charges, Jean is believed to have left the UK following the scandal and is thought to be living in France, though her exact whereabouts remain unknown.
The Mother of All Cons
BBC Two’s new three-part series, “The Mother of All Cons,” revisits this shocking tale. The documentary delves into how a seemingly innocent story of cancer and charity turned into one of the biggest frauds in British history. It’s a reminder that even the most well-intentioned stories can unravel when truth is scrutinized.
A Lesson in Trust?
The case of Jean O’Brien and Megan Bhari raises questions about trust, authenticity, and the power of social media in shaping public perception. While celebrities and supporters were once quick to rally behind their cause, it took only a few suspicious parents to unravel the truth. The Mother of All Cons serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to the resilience of families facing serious illnesses. So, you might think this is new, but…
