“When we’re unwell, we all want the best clinical outcome we can get, but you can't separate that outcome from the experience you have. And what I mean by that is a good experience contributes enormously to a good outcome.” – Peter.
Looking back on his journey with cancer, Peter can reflect on the experience with positivity. While he often referred to ‘luck’ during his treatment for melanoma, much of his positive outlook came down to having access to the right people, resources and support he needed at every stage. And as Peter observed himself, it’s easier to feel positive when you have a positive experience.
In 2017, Peter was diagnosed with melanoma that had spread to his lymph nodes. At the time, immunotherapy was emerging as a promising treatment option but was still in its early stages of clinical use. Peter had a difficult choice to make about his treatment path.
“You've got to remember, even in the last six, seven, ten years, melanoma has come a long way,” said Peter. “It's come from being almost certainly a death sentence for many to where there's a lot that can be done.”
Determined to make an informed choice, Peter researched heavily. He reached out to Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 support service and spoke to a cancer nurse, explored online resources, and consulted other cancer organisations. This helped give him clarity and confidence.
“There are so many supports out there to help with decision making and to support our wellbeing and broader health,” Peter shared. “Being able to talk to someone online or at the end of the phone to ask a question. I've learned the value of that.”
Beyond accessing ground-breaking immunotherapy, Peter was also invited to participate in a ‘physical activity and cancer’ trial. This trial became a transformative part of his journey, offering life-long benefits and further enhancing his overall experience.
Peter’s experience serves as a blueprint for what a cancer journey can aspire to be and what Cancer Council strives for. It demonstrates that treating the whole person – not just the disease – contributes to better outcomes and a better quality of life during treatment.
As Peter put it, “What mattered to me was just as important as what was the matter with me.”
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