Losing My Dad To Cancer


My life changed forever in my late teens when I lost my beloved dad Kevin, to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. He was the young age of 56.

At the time, cancer research was progressing, but there was still a lack of information and little family support compared to what exists today. Cancer was whispered about as "The Big C", a word we hardly dared to say, let alone discuss openly.

That experience shaped my belief in the importance of talking openly about cancer and other serious illnesses. Raising awareness is crucial for recognizing early signs and symptoms, and early diagnosis can make all the difference in recovery and survival.

Having been on the sidelines many times with loved ones, I now offer support and advice to those who find themselves in the same uncertain place. There are many ways in which you can play your part in supporting family members or friends who are facing an illness. The first step is always to acknowledge it and start the conversation.

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 Friends & Family
Since losing my father, I witnessed several friends and family members face life-altering challenges. Not just from cancer but from kidney failure, brain tumors, heart conditions and mental health struggles.
In 2022, I took a personal step by becoming a living kidney donor for my
sister-in-law.
One thing all these incredible people have shared is their ability to hold on to their sense of humor. Despite losing a part of their bodies or experiencing significant changes, they never lost their spirit. Their capacity to laugh at the very things that turned their lives upside down, was often a means of coping.

"Critical illnesses are not funny, but every time you find laughter in a difficult situation, you win.....if even for just that moment" - Anon

❤️