Jack’s story
l was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma when l was 16 years of age. At time of diagnosis, l was your typical teenage boy, studying for ATAR, learning to drive, working part-time and ready to follow my dreams…. Then those words “You have Cancer” – “my world stopped”.
In September 2019, I started experiencing severe headaches, headaches that prevented me from attending work and school. After multiple visits to doctors, and varying opinions, in November 2019, an MRI revealed a large mass in my cerebellar vermis bulging into the 4th ventricle. For us non-doctors – a 5cm tumour in my brain.
The tumour was removed on 27 November 2019 and after surgery I was in ICU for eight days before moving to a neuro ward. After day three I experienced reduced speech, irritability, low muscle tone, unsteadiness, reduced coordination as well as losing the ability to walk. A condition known as Posterior Fossa Syndrome.
My next stop on the journey was Perth Children’s Hospital Ward 1A – unknown to me at the time, PCH was to become my home away from home for the next 9 -12 months. My oncology team at PCH was led by Dr Santosh and Dr Nick who arranged for me to take part in a clinical trial SJMB12. This trial included 30 sessions of radiation to brain and spine and 7 cycles of chemotherapy. The radiation and chemotherapy were harsh! – I lost 40kg, this meant buying clothes from the kids clothing section.
The unrelenting nausea and vomiting seemed never-ending, and in every corner of our home, we kept a “vomit bucket.” I lost count of how many times my Mum, Dad, and brother rushed to my side with a bucket, held it for me, and then carefully cleaned it, preparing it for the next time.
I found myself dependent on help even for the most basic tasks, and there were days when I didn’t even manage to get out of bed. However, the most heart-wrenching loss I experienced was my connections with friends and my senior year of school. It meant that I couldn’t take my ATAR exams, despite all the hard work I had put into preparing for them. I had to miss out on Awards Night, the graduation ceremony, and the chance to celebrate with my friends during the end-of-year Schoolies week. I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of frustration and anger.
Whilst Cancer was tough on me – I know it was tough on my immediate family, I saw the sadness, worry and tears in my parent’s eyes, the guilt I felt was immense. My family’s love never wavered, and they walked beside me and never gave up…And to everyone one of you at our table, I thank you for the love and support for me, but also taking care of Mum, Dad and Brad.
Fast forward four years, here l am today cancer free. I am young, strong, and determined. l am walking again, attending University, and working my dream job at Mineral Resources.
Together, through support and contributions, we can make a difference in the lives of children fighting this disease and pave the way for a brighter, healthier future.
