CANCER DIAGNOSIS PROVIDES VALUABLE LIFE LESSONS FOR ROBERT

Queensland cattle farmer, Robert has always led a busy lifestyle. The 64-year-old manages a large rural property spanning over 20,000 acres with close to 15,000 head of cattle.

He jokes that he “didn’t have time” for a cancer diagnosis in July 2021.

“I was urinating a lot, which was the first sign something wasn’t right. I thought if I cut down on the amount of water I was drinking, it might help. But it didn’t.

“I went to the doctor who ordered a (ProstateSpecific Antigen) PSA test and it came back with a high result of nine.

“I was sent to see a specialist and from there I was told I had an aggressive form of prostate cancer.”

The father of three says the diagnosis came as a huge shock to himself and his family, who help oversee the farm.

“We have 25 workers and a huge property to run. That doesn’t stop because of a cancer diagnosis,” says Robert.

“But I knew I had to put my health first.”

Robert underwent radiation therapy at Icon Cancer Centre Toowoomba from February to May 2022, which is over 200km away from his property. During his ten weeks of treatment, Robert would travel to and from treatment twice a week, staying in Toowoomba on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday nights.

He says although it was hard to be away from his family, he was grateful for the support he received from the Icon Cancer Centre Toowoomba team.

“They are the nicest people I’ve ever met,” says Robert.

“They looked after me so well. I was actually overwhelmed by it.

“When they asked me to participate in the clinical trial, I wanted to do it. If it helps future prostate cancer patients, it’s worth it.”

Robert is now back on the farm working alongside his partner and children.

He says he has taken some valuable life lessons from his cancer journey.

“It’s definitely changed my outlook on life,” he says.

“I’ve always been someone who worked hard, but now I know when it’s time to take a break.

“I know I have to look after myself so I can keep going.”

WHEN THEY ASKED ME TO PARTICIPATE IN THE CLINICAL TRIAL, I WANTED TO DO IT. IF IT HELPS FUTURE PROSTATE CANCER PATIENTS, IT’S WORTH IT.”