Bev and David’s Story: Help When It Was Needed Most

Bev and her husband David shared 44 years together — a lifetime of love, laughter, and quiet companionship. But when David was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in July 2024, their world changed in an instant. 

“It went to his stomach very quickly,” Bev recalls. “He had radiation therapy — just five sessions — but he’d been bleeding internally, and they couldn’t do anything for him after that.” 

From diagnosis to David’s passing in March 2025, the months were filled with hospital trips, invasive procedures, and a level of physical and emotional care that tested Bev’s every reserve. David eventually needed a feeding tube, and Bev nursed him at home until the end. “It was very hard on both of us,” she says. 

But they didn’t face it alone. 

Can Assist Stepped In 

Can Assist was there when things became overwhelming. “They took all the worry away from me,” Bev says. “They helped with getting us to Tamworth, they paid for accommodation there and at John Hunter Hospital in Newcastle, and they covered David’s medications and the special food he needed for the tube. I can’t express how much they gave us — financially, emotionally, and practically.” 

Bev already knew about Can Assist thanks to her strong local community ties and her friend Jenny, President of the local branch. “I’ve supported Can Assist for years, gone to all their events,” Bev says. “But I don’t know if I would’ve asked for help. I’m so grateful Jenny reached out and said, ‘We’re here for you.’” 

A Lifetime of Love — And a New Battle 

Bev is now facing her own cancer journey. Diagnosed in August 2023 with a rare blood cancer called myelofibrosis, she’s on chemotherapy tablets, morphine patches, and other medications to manage pain and fatigue. “I was diagnosed before David,” she says. “He was actually the one supporting me at first.” 

And now Can Assist is helping Bev with her treatment too — easing the cost of vital medications 

Finding Peace in the country 

Bev and David moved to the country 11 years ago to escape Sydney’s smog, after years of Bev suffering from chronic chest infections. “We came up here for my nephew’s wedding, loved it, and never looked back. The air is beautiful, and I’ve barely been sick since.” 

The couple built a new life in the country, one full of music and friendships. Bev ran a group that took people to musicals in Sydney and always supported Can Assist’s high teas, Melbourne Cup events, and more. 

Now, Bev finds herself leaning on the very community she gave so much to. 

Bev’s Message 

“To anyone going through cancer, or who knows someone who is — please reach out. There is help out there,” Bev says. “Can Assist is phenomenal. The local branches are full of kind, supportive people who go out of their way to help. You don’t have to do this alone.”