John’s Story

John’s Story – It happened so suddenly 

John had always considered himself fit and active – walking, bushwalking, spending time with his three children and three grandchildren, and catching up with mates for a beer. Then, out of the blue, everything changed. 

“One morning I woke up and my left eye was very wet. I thought maybe something was in it. The next day, the eyelid was completely closed, and it’s never opened by itself since.” 

After visiting his doctor, John was sent to Tamworth for tests. The diagnosis was a sebaceous cell carcinoma – a rare cancer behind his left eye. Radiotherapy began in Tamworth, followed by immunotherapy, which he still receives every three weeks. 

“The cancer clinic there is great. The nurses are wonderful. I see my specialist regularly, and the treatment itself only takes about an hour – but it’s 80 kilometres each way. That’s been one of the biggest changes. I had to hand in my licence, so now my wife drives me. I really miss being able to just jump in the car to get bread or see a mate.” 

Despite the challenges, John remains active and positive. He’s grateful for the people who have supported him, including his local Can Assist branch. 

“They gave us petrol vouchers and that’s been a real help. It’s not just the financial side, it’s knowing someone cares. They’ve been there for me, and for many others in our town.” 

“At first, we said ‘no’ to help because we thought other people needed it more. But Can Assist is there for exactly this reason – to help people get through cancer in any way they can. I’m very thankful for them and the work they do.” 

John still faces treatment ahead, but his outlook remains positive. He keeps active, enjoys time with family, and stays connected with friends and the community. 

“It was such a surprise diagnosis, but I reckon I’m going well. The treatment’s working, and I’ve got a lot of people, especially my wife Debbie, to thank for helping me along the way.”