The support clinical trials gave my wife opened my eyes to what they could offer patients, outside of the regular treatments that are available mainstream,"
Upon reflection, Greg doesn’t think there’s anything to worry about when signing up for a clinical trial. In fact, he’s had a positive experience.
“Looking back, there weren’t any shocks or any negatives that came out of it – I would call the care that you get during trial treatment ‘hyper-care’,” he said.
From his perspective, there are two reasons to be a part of clinical trials.
“I had no hesitation as soon as there was an opportunity, firstly because I could get an early treatment, and secondly to provide something back to cancer research,” he said.
The Daffodil Day Appeal helped save lives like Greg's
Greg "jumped at the chance" to participate in a trial cancer treatment following his melanoma diagnosis.
He was first diagnosed with skin cancer in 2006, but unfortunately had a further diagnosis of the same cancer in 2017.
This time, Greg took up the opportunity to be involved in two clinical trials; a treatment option that helps researchers test and develop new treatments.
“These two trials were being sponsored by my oncologist, and they offered it to me as an opportunity to treat one of the cancers which couldn’t be surgically removed down on my abdomen,” said Greg.
Greg’s family are all too familiar with cancer. That’s why he knows first-hand the benefits of a clinical trial.
“My late wife, who passed in 2014, was also given the opportunity to go on a trial
Greg has seen and experienced the impact these drugs can have on a patient’s quality of life.
“I’ve got three kids in their 20s who I’d like to spend a bit more time with, and I’d like to potentially be a granddad.
The Daffodil Day Appeal is raising vital funds so people like Greg can continue to be a part of their family.
“I think a lot of people would jump at the opportunity to have a better quality of life and extended time with friends and family,” he said.
Today, Greg feels fortunate to be making the most of life – thanks to cancer research which is working to protect our loved ones.
“To be able to go to work while I’m recovering from cancer and feel ‘normal’ with no drastic differences, that was an opportunity I jumped at.”
Greg knows that research has given him more quality time with his family, and hopes that his story encourages all Australians to support Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day Appeal.
Cancer has struck me and my family a number of times and each time I was fortunate enough to take part in a treatment programme which resulted from Cancer Council research funding.”
“With every advancement in treatment, I’ve been able to stay more active and spend more time with my family, instead of in a hospital bed.
“The Daffodil gave me hope. Research gives us more time together,” he said.
