When a chance blood test helped diagnose David Oliver’s prostate cancer in 2005, he made a vow to his wife and kids.
“From day one I was determined to fight it,” the St Albans Park grandfather-of-five said.
“I made a spoken promise that if I got through it OK I would give something back. That’s how I got involved with Cancer Council.”
During a regular work check-up David underwent a prostate-specific antigen test for his first time, which led to the diagnosis.
“The children were as emotional as I was,” he said.
“My eldest daughter tried to joke about it and burst into tears.”
He spent six days in hospital after surgery and came home with 33 staples in his stomach and wearing a catheter.
He then required 36 radiation treatments to fully get rid of the cancer.
“It was a great relief but as with any surgery or treatment with your prostate, it can create other problems,” he said.
“Your whole lifestyle between you and your wife can change dramatically. I was just lucky I had a very understanding wife and we worked through it.”
David fulfilled his promise, becoming a telephone counsellor for Cancer Council Victoria.
He spoke to “about 60 blokes” who were newly diagnosed, having problems with treatment or suffering subsequent issues like erectile dysfunction and incontinence.
David remembered speaking 40 times to a man in Wodonga who credited some of his recovery to David’s counselling.
“You form a friendship over the phone by the end,” he said.
David continues to support Cancer Council and he encouraged Geelong locals to support the “great job” the organisation does by donating online for Daffodil Day on August 28 at www.daffodilday.com.au.
Luke Voogt
