Trevor’s Story

A Long Road, Made Lighter

Trevor Jones was nearly 70 when sharp pain in his ribs while on a Brisbane holiday turned into something far more serious. Initially thought to be a cracked rib, blood tests later revealed leukaemia – a diagnosis that hit hard. “I felt, my God, how long have I got? I’m gonna die shortly.” 

Despite his age, Trevor’s years of staying active – cycling, swimming, even triathlons, meant he was healthy enough to be approved for stem cell therapy, something usually reserved for younger patients. Trevor was thankful he kept an active and healthy lifestyle, as he mentioned “the only thing that saved me was that I was so fit”. But the treatment meant five weeks in Canberra, being extremely vulnerable to infection, unable to be vaccinated, and with a long road to recovery ahead. 

Trevor and his wife June, a retired nurse, have lived in Forbes their whole lives. Their cancer journey has included more than 4,500 kilometres of travel to Parkes, Orange and Canberra – over 50 hours of driving. The distance, the fuel costs, and navigating the medical system were overwhelming. 

It was a family friend and Can Assist volunteer who first pointed them toward help. “They were always there,” Trevor said. Can Assist help with IPTAAS forms, redirected chemist bills through Slade Pharmacy, and provided fuel vouchers. Can Assist not only lifted a heavy financial burden, but they were also an emotional support to lean on during a difficult time. “If Can Assist didn’t help me, I’d be a nervous wreck.” 

Trevor credits June for being his emotional anchor. “Just ask June,” he’d say often, leaving the details to her. But for June, being in it together was never a question. “That’s ok, we’re a team, we’re in it together.” When Can Assist got involved, she noticed a change in him: “He relaxed. It was great to see him relaxed more. It was very important to us.” 

Telling their family was one of the hardest parts. Their children live next door, and their grandchildren adore Trevor. When he was first diagnosed, June sat the young ones down and gently explained what was happening. “There were lots of tears and questions,” she said. “But they’ve been so supportive.” 

Trevor is now on the path to recovery thanks to stem cell therapy and the unwavering support from Can Assist. “The best move is to contact Can Assist,” he says. “You’ll be surprised at how helpful they can be.” For Trevor and June, the assistance provided wasn’t just financial – it reminded them they weren’t alone. 

Inspired by their experience, June is now considering becoming a Can Assist volunteer. “That’s how it starts,” said a staff member. “Someone is impacted, and the word and support spreads.” For anyone facing cancer in the country, Can Assist can be the lifeline that changes everything.