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It's MY Foundation
I was diagnosed with non-secretory multiple myeloma in May, 1997, and after a stem cell transplant, went into remission in November, 1997. I had the usual attack of shingles, but I have been very lucky that the transplant "took". I haven't had any problems since (well, myeloma wise anyway), and therefore have not needed any follow-up medication.
In the year 2000, I joined the local Myeloma Support Group called Myeloma SA, joined the Committee in 2001 and became the Group Coordinator and local Newsletter Editor in 2004. When we joined MFA in 2007, I became the Chairman MFA – SA Division and therefore also a Member of the Board of Management. I feel it is important to have some patients and carers on the Board to balance out the “professional” members and to remind us why we are here. I have a wonderful Committee, comprising of patients, carers and ex-carers, who help me organise the Workshops/ Support Group Meetings and show direction for the Foundation in South Australia
After stopping full time work in 2006, my wife Sandra and I moved down to Victor Harbor on the South Coast, 85 km south of Adelaide, where I do volunteer work for a local Community Centre, where they build toys and propagate plants for sale. With the funds, they are able to provide facilities and transport for the disabled people in the area.
My hobbies are, Beer Can Collecting, Local and AFL Football (Port Power supporter) and gardening.
“My philosophy in life is to be positive when you are facing a crisis (like cancer) and if you are lucky enough to survive, enjoy life, don’t waste time on trivial things, fulfil your dreams and put something back.”
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