WHY I'M DOING IT
I’m a life long surfer. Having grown up in Queensland in the 1960’s and 70’s I’ve had plenty of skin cancers removed from all that sun exposure. My first mortal encounter with cancer was when my dear friend died of melanoma leaving two tiny children, at the age of 42. Now as I approach 61 years old I am deeply saddened by the knowledge of how young he was, to die at 42, with so much ahead.
Many years had passed with some brushes with cancer through friends and family and my regular trips to have skin cancers removed, some serious ones requiring deep incision and over 15 stitches.Â
I was hit with a terrible two years in 2019 and 2020. In the space of these two years we lost my sister in law from lung cancer at 54. This terrible loss was followed only the next year when we lost one of my nephews at 33! Also from lung cancer.
Age and personal experience has taught me that cancer is the scourge of our lives.
It kills indiscriminately and often, showing no mercy.
When I learned that I could use my love of surfing to support the incredible work of the Chris O'Brien Lifehouse I jumped at the chance. It’s such a wonderful way to express my feelings about the issue and since beginning I’ve had a number of friends say “the Lifehouse saved my life!” Stories of treatment and success are a great joy amidst the pain of loss. I’m going to do all I can to help the cause so I’ll be out there every day in February. For Michael, Debbie and Pete. For all of us.
My Achievements
Completed Registration
Share on Social
First donation
Self-Donation
Joined a team
Reached Team goal
Good work, Mic.