Support people affected by cancer in Gisborne, Hawkes Bay, Manawatū, Whanganui, and Taranaki
The doctor's holding my hand, and goes, ‘Luke, you’ve got stage 4 bowel cancer.’ The first thing that you ask is, ‘Am I going to die?’ Because your hearts racing, palms are sweaty, and you feel like you’re going to pass out. I was shocked and heartbroken, my mind went to my wife, Cushla, and our sons Theo (6) and Hunter (9).
Nobody is prepared to face the shock and fear of a cancer diagnosis. The pain it will bring to their loved ones, or the physical, emotional, and financial implications which are overwhelming. As I grappled with the news I knew I needed to tell my sons. I wanted them to know that yes, I’ve been afflicted with something that has a potential outcome to take my life, but everyone’s going to do everything they can to make sure I’m here as long as possible.
Nothing prepares you for the mental load, that’s the hardest bit. It’s during the darkest moments of the cancer journey, when fears and ‘what ifs’ race through your mind, that the Cancer Society’s support becomes invaluable. It was so great being able to just pick up the phone and get some much-needed guidance and instruction.
I’ve now finished with chemotherapy, and after multiple surgeries, I’m taking each challenge as it comes. For now, I’m excited to refocus on what truly matters - being a dad, a husband, and enjoying beautiful sunsets with my wife Cushla.
1 in 3 New Zealanders will hear the words "you have cancer". With your help this Daffodil Day we can be there for more people like Luke and their whānau.
