Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia

“Prostate cancer picked the wrong bloke to mess with.” 💪 Meet Tim. He was just 44 when he was diagnosed with aggressive stage 4 prostate cancer in December 2023. 😔 “At the time, I had a young, beautiful family. They still are! My wife Bridget and our kids, Maeve and Clancy, are my whole world. The thought of dying wasn’t what hit me hardest. It was the thought of what it would do to them. 🥺 “Before prostate cancer, we had just finished the adventure of a lifetime, caravaning around Australia. 🥰 “My happy place has always been the outdoors, fishing, caravaning, and getting out of the big smoke with the caravan packed and the kids in the car. 😊 “Before my diagnosis, I’d started experiencing pain in my hip. Scans later showed I had aggressive stage 4 prostate cancer, with a Gleason score of 9, and that the cancer had spread to my ribs, shoulder blade, tailbone and now there are spots in my lung. 😟 “Suddenly, I was starting treatment, going through chemo (here I am pictured undergoing my fourth round), radiation and hormone therapy, and trying to keep life moving as normally as possible. 😣 “I had this image in my mind of what someone with stage 4 cancer looked like, and I kept thinking, that’s not me. 🙏 “I still wanted to turn up for my family. I wanted to show my kids, my wife, my family and my friends that you could still live a good life with stage 4 cancer. 🥲 “Throughout it all, I kept saying to myself: I wasn’t finished, I had too much to do. 👍 “Prostate cancer bloody well picked the wrong boke. 💪 “These days, looking after my health is a key part of life. The gym matters. Movement matters. 🌝 “That’s why this Men’s Health Week, I’m walking for men like me, and for the families who are changed forever by prostate cancer.” 💙 Tim, thank you for your inspiring words and for sharing your story so generously. 💙 Registrations are now open for Walk for Him: .au You can choose to walk 25km, or a distance of their choice, from June 15-21. Sign up today, raise $50 by June 9, and receive your FREE Walk for Him t-shirt. 😍 Together, we can make every step count for men and families impacted by prostate cancer. 💪💙

“A Prostate Cancer Support Group provides an ear for them and helps blokes feel less alone.” 💙 When Dennis was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014, he didn’t know where to turn. 🫣 Now, the Ipswich prostate cancer survivor and Support Group Convenor has been recognised with PCFA’s prestigious Max Gardner Award for his outstanding service to men and families impacted by prostate cancer. 🎉 “I was 68 when I was diagnosed. 🤔 “My GP noticed my PSA had doubled over four months and referred me to a urologist. After further tests and biopsies, I was told I had prostate cancer. 😭 “At the time, I remember thinking, where do I go from here? “That’s when I found the Ipswich Prostate Cancer Support Group, and it was the best things I could have ever done. 💙 “The help I received was unbelievable. I could sit down one-on-one, talk privately, ask questions, and hear from people who understood what I was going through. ☺️ “After my treatment, I knew I wanted to give something back. The group had helped me so much, and I didn’t want other men in Ipswich to go through prostate cancer without support. 💪 “That’s why I took on the Convenor role in 2018. 😍 “I make sure the group is supported. We talk openly, we listen, and we make sure men know that support is available. ❤️ “I also love getting out into the community, visiting markets, Men’s Sheds, Lions and Rotary Clubs, Bunnings, and local coffee and chat at events across the Scenic Rim. 👏 “In some areas, men don’t have a support group nearby, so going out to them really matters. 💙 “Receiving the Max Gardner Award was a real honour. I couldn’t believe it at first. 🤩 “But for me, it has always been about helping others. 🥰 “If my story encourages one man to get checked, ask questions, or reach out for support, then it’s worth sharing.” 💙 Congratulations, Dennis! Your dedication to supporting men and their families impacted by prostate cancer is truly inspiring and is making a difference to the lives of many. 🙌 To find a PCFA Support Group, please call 1800 22 00 99 or visit: .au/support/find-a-support-group/

“Prostate cancer can be frightening, especially at the start, but talking to others who understand can make a real difference.” 💪 When Bill was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2005 at the age of 50, he knew how important early detection could be. Bill lost his father to prostate cancer, and that experience made him vigilant about his own health. 💙 Now, after more than a decade of advocacy and leadership in the Geelong community, Bill has been awarded a prestigious Max Gardner Award for his outstanding service, including his long-standing contribution to the Geelong Prostate Cancer Support Group. 👏 “I was diagnosed in 2005 and had a radical prostatectomy. 👍 “My recovery wasn’t easy. I was out of action for three months with infections, and things weren’t healing properly. It was a real battle, but I got through it. 🙂 “Soon after my diagnosis, I joined the Geelong PCSG, and it became a real source of strength for me. 💙 “They answered a lot of my questions. Hearing how other men dealt with their situations helped prepare me for what might lie ahead. 🙂 “Not long after joining the group, I became part of PCFA’s inaugural Ambassador Program, a role I was proud to hold for 12 years. 👍 “Over time, I became more involved with the support group. I became Secretary in 2013, and in 2016, I stepped into the role of Convener. 🥰 “For me, one of the most important things we do is put men at ease. We reassure them that there are options and that there are ways of dealing with their situation. 💙 “Prostate cancer can be frightening, especially at the start, but talking to others who understand can make a real difference. 💪💙 “My message to other men is simple. Don’t be afraid to get tested. Understand your test results. Ask questions. Make yourself aware of what’s going on. 👍 “Receiving the Max Gardner Award was a total surprise, and I feel deeply honoured to have received it.” 💙 Huge congratulations, Bill! 🎉 Your dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment to supporting men and their families is truly inspiring. 🥰 To find a PCFA Support Group, please call 1800 22 00 99. We're here for you. 💪💙

“You can still have quite a joyful life after a prostate cancer diagnosis.” 💙 When Bert was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2011, he never imagined his experience would one day lead him to help other men living with prostate cancer and their families. 💪 Now, the Box Hill prostate cancer survivor and group leader has been recognised with PCFA’s prestigious Max Gardner Award for his outstanding service to the prostate cancer community. 🎉 “I was diagnosed in 2011 and had brachytherapy and radiation treatment. 👍 “At first, I didn’t go to a support group. I think I had the same idea that many people have. That it might just be a group of men talking about how terrible prostate cancer is. 😐 “But nothing could be further from the truth. ☺️ “When I eventually went along, I was very pleasantly surprised. I found a welcoming group of people who understood what I had been through and were willing to talk openly, honestly and positively. 😉 “I joined the Box Hill Prostate Cancer Support Group in 2016, and a couple of years later, when someone needed to step up as group leader, I decided to give it a go. 💪 “It has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done. 😍 “Our meetings are supportive, encouraging, and they’re also quite jovial.💙 “I’ve seen men come into the group feeling very down and leave feeling lifted. That is what makes support groups so powerful. 💪 “I’ve also been proud to help organise speakers, and work closely with PCFA and local Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses. 👍 “Receiving the Max Gardner Award is a great honour, although I see it as recognition of the whole group and everyone who gives their time to support others. 💙 “My message to other men is simple: don’t go through prostate cancer alone. 👍 “Support is there, and life after diagnosis can still be full of friendship, purpose and joy.” 💙 Massive congratulations, Bert! 💙 Your dedication is truly inspiring. Read more here: .au/news-media/pcfa-champions/three-prostate-cancer-advocates-recognised-with-prestigious-national-award/ To find a PCFA Support Group, please call 1800 22 00 99 or visit: .au/support/find-a-support-group/

“After a diagnosis, don’t lose hope.” 💙 Meet this legend, Mark. 💪 He had been monitoring his PSA annually with his GP for years, until he was sent for further investigation late last year when his PSA rose from 4.5 to 6.5. 😟 “That led me to a urologist, who confirmed a lump and an enlarged prostate. 😟 “After a biopsy and scans, I was told I had a small but aggressive prostate cancer, with a Gleason score of 8. Thankfully, there was no spread to my lymph nodes or signs of metastasis. 👍 “I opted for robotic prostatectomy and had surgery in March. Unfortunately, it didn’t go as planned, with herniated tissue and visceral fat impeding the surgery. 😔 “So, it was off to Plan B. And I am grateful that, through medical advances, there is a Plan B! 🙌 “I have now started hormone treatment and, so far, I am not dealing with many of the listed side effects. I attend exercise sessions each week and also go to my local gym. 💪 “After gold seed implants in June, radiation will begin in August and continue for several months. 👍 “What have I learnt throughout this? 🤔 “Early detection matters! It was regular testing and a conversation with my GP that picked this up early. 💙 “I have also learnt how many men have not had a recent PSA test, or have not even heard of PSA. That really concerns me. 😟 “There are also a lot of doom stories out there. My advice is to use trusted information from PCFA and your doctors. It helps keep your head clear. 🙂 “I have leaned heavily on my family, especially my wife, who has been brilliant. As she rightly says, partners need to be part of the conversation too. 💙 “I’ve also learned that it’s really important to stay positive and to not lose hope. 💪 “I now use every opportunity I can to encourage men to get checked early. It might just save your life.” 💙 Mark, huge thanks for sharing such a courageous and positive story. 👏 For trusted information and support, please reach out to PCFA on 1800 22 00 99 or visit .au. We’re here for you. 💪💙

“Every day is a day closer to getting through it, getting stronger, and returning to the life you love.” 😍 When Michael was diagnosed with prostate cancer in August 2024 at 62, it started with something simple: a routine PSA blood test. 😮 “I’ve always valued my health pretty highly, so once a year I’d go in for a blood test to check everything. For the past few years, that included my PSA. 👍 “When my PSA went up a little, my GP suggested I speak with a urologist. After more tests, they found prostate cancer. Hearing you have cancer is a shock to anyone. 😳 “That night, I went home and drank a bottle of red wine. The next morning, I woke up, put my big boy pants on, and decided to tackle it head on. 💪 “You’ve got two choices in life. You can hide from it, or you can face it. I chose to face it. 👏 “I spoke with different specialists and looked at my options, including active surveillance, radiation, and surgery. In the end, I decided to have my prostate removed. 👍 “I had surgery in December 2025. One night in hospital, then home the next day. Recovery has had its challenges, including incontinence, but I’m getting better each day. 🥰 “I can still walk, ride my bike, and keep moving. I’ve always looked after myself, and I think staying active and positive makes a big difference. 💙 “I also believe in talking about it. I’ve spoken to more than a hundred men about prostate cancer, whether over coffee or in everyday conversations. There’s nothing to be ashamed of. 🫶 “It’s better to know than not to know, because if you wait until you feel sick, it could be too late. 👍 “My PSA is zero now, which is great. I’m cancer free, and I’m grateful. 🥰 “My message to other men is simple: get the blood test. Ask your doctor about your PSA. It’s one day a year, and it could save your life.” 💙 Thanks so much for sharing your story, Michael. We really appreciate your honesty, openness, and positive attitude. 😍 Your message is simple, powerful, and lifesaving: it’s better to know than not to know. 💙

Warren never imagined he’d be standing in a car park on Cox Plate Day last year, holding back tears in front of his mates. 🥹 “We were about to head into the track, when I called everyone over and told them I’d been diagnosed with prostate cancer. 😭 “There was shock and tears, but there were also lots of hugs, and later laughs. It was just one of those moments where you could really feel the support and love from your mates. 🥰 “A number of the boys got tested, and fortunately, none of them has prostate cancer. That’s a massive win! 👏 “Before I was diagnosed, I was busy with work, running around after my two boys, staying involved in footy and basketball, just living and loving life, completely unaware that I had cancer. 😯 “It was only through a routine check-up and a PSA blood test that they discovered something was wrong. The news stopped me in my tracks. 😦 “That’s what makes this test so important. I had no symptoms. 🤨 “I had a prostatectomy in December last year. The first couple of weeks were tough, but once I got through that, things improved pretty quickly. By Christmas, I was more mobile and able to spend time with family and friends. 😃 “A few weeks ago, I heard that my PSA levels are now undetectable. 😁 “Looking back, early detection made all the difference. It gave me the chance to act quickly before the cancer spread, and I’ve now come out the other side. ☺️ “I’ve been incredibly lucky with the people around me. From footy club connections to lifelong mates - the support has been unbelievable. 💙 “In those early weeks, talking openly with family and friends made all the difference. 👍 “Having honest conversations with people you trust helps give you clarity when you need it most. 💪 "What’s really stayed with me is just how powerful that support network can be, and how important it is not to go through something like this in silence or by yourself.” ✊ Thank you, Warren, for sharing your encouraging story. 💙 If you have been recently diagnosed, reach out to us on 1800 22 00 99, and know that you’ll never have to go through prostate cancer alone. 👊

Thumbs up back at you, BP! 👍💙 Earlier this month, Bryan shared his prostate cancer story with us after being diagnosed in January. At the start of April, he received good news that the cancer was contained to the prostate. And now, he's been discharged from hospital today, literally a day after surgery. 😍 From BP: "Thanks to everyone for your well wishes. 🥰 You’re all very kind. 🤩 "Sharing a happy snap to let you all see I am doing fine and was allowed to be discharged from hospital at lunch today, literally the day after surgery. 💪 "No pain, which surprised even yours truly. 😉 "Much appreciation to the nursing staff, the anaesthetic team, surgical nurse assistant Leonie, and Professor Devang for providing such great care. 🙏 "Gratitude also to the special Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurses and Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia for the extra support." 💙💙 Thank you for sharing such a positive update, BP, and for bringing that upbeat energy every step of the way. Your positivity is truly inspiring. 💪 💙

This Sunday 26 April — the day after Anzac Day — the Tweed Coast Pedal for Prostates hits the Northern Rivers Rail Trail and there’s still time to get on board! 🚴‍♂️ Caught up with Philip Arthur from the Lions Club of Cabarita Beach and Pottsville Beach to find out more about this great event. 50km along the Northern Rivers Rail Trail — Burringbar to Murwillumbah and back. No hills, no rush. Bring the kids and make a day of it. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in Australian men. 1 in 5 blokes will be diagnosed in their lifetime. This ride raises funds for vital research and gets the conversation going. 💙 Whether you’re jumping on a bike or just want to support the cause — get involved. Tickets are $66 for adults, $6 for kids, and donations are welcome too. Register or donate here 👉 /tweedcoastpedalforprostates From 7am at Masterson Park, Burringbar. #ilovetweedshire #pedalforprostates #northernriversrailtrail #prostatecancer #TweedShire

Do you have fishing plans this weekend? 🎣💙 Fishing is Australia’s biggest recreational sport, with more than 3.4 million anglers casting a line each year. At the same time, prostate cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, with nearly 29,000 men expected to be diagnosed this year. That’s why the @pirtekfishingchallenge matters. For 18 years, it has partnered with PCFA to share a simple but life-saving message: get checked. “It’s not all about catching the biggest fish. It’s about supporting Aussie men and their families impacted by prostate cancer,” says Event Director Michael Guest. With much of the fishing community made up of men aged 55 and over, it’s the perfect opportunity to start conversations that could save lives. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or picking up a rod for the first time, you can take part. 📅 18–19 April 📍 Fish anywhere in Australia 🎁 Over $300,000 in prizes Wet a line. Start a conversation. Look after your health. 💪💙 Sign up via the link in bio 🔗 #PIRTEKFishingChallenge #fishing #prostatecancer #menshealth #getchecked

For Phillip, every prostate cancer diagnosis is distinct, yet each one is equally significant, life-changing, and filled with the resilience inherent in humanity. He was diagnosed in October 2025. “My personal journey has been particularly challenging, marked by a highly aggressive prostate cancer diagnosis (Gleason 9, ISUP Grade 5, PIRADS 5), with complex features including perineural invasion and intraductal carcinoma. ☹️ “Within a year, the disease had spread from my pelvis to my oesophagus, against the backdrop of family tragedies most people could hardly imagine. 🥺 “The ongoing test results confirming a worsening scenario have pushed my resolve to its limits. 😣 “As someone who has found it difficult to ask for help, my diagnosis compelled me to seek it. 👍 “Although I was uncertain what I needed, I feel fortunate to have found the PCFA website. 💙 “From my initial interactions with Kirsty, the Prostate Cancer Specialist Nurse, to sessions with Tracy, their psychologist, I felt heard and understood. 😊 “Their support was crucial in helping me function as normally as possible during an incredibly difficult time. 💪 “On the hardest days, they helped me navigate what I was going through, and at one point, even the CEO stepped in to assist with medical professionals. 🙌 “Unfortunately, I am among the minority of patients with extremely aggressive disease. 😟 “Without their support, I would not have coped during my darkest moments. 🥹 “They have restored my strength to face what lies ahead. 😊 “As I navigate complex treatment decisions, I face tough weeks ahead. How can one express gratitude for such personalised, professional care? 😊 “To fellow Australians who may need support, I strongly recommend reaching out to this organisation. 💙 “On behalf of my wife and me, I extend my sincerest thanks.” 🙌 1800 22 00 99 or visit .au We’re here for you. Always. 💙

At 56, Peter isn't slowing down! 💪 Next month, he’ll be running a half-marathon in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. 💙 “It’ll be my second half-marathon since being diagnosed with prostate cancer in May 2024. 👏 “I never expected to hear the words: You have prostate cancer. 😔 “I’ve always been vigilant about my health, especially after losing both of my parents to cancer at a young age. 😥 “Over two years ago, my PSA rose to 5, then higher again. A biopsy confirmed stage 2 prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 7. 😟 “I was shocked. It’s something I wouldn’t wish on anyone. 😢 “In August 2024, I had surgery to remove my prostate. Thankfully, my recovery has been strong. 💪 “I’m feeling good, exercising every day, and my latest PSA results have been really positive. 😊 “Running has become a big part of my journey. 😊 “I completed my first post-diagnosis half-marathon at Uluru last year, and now I’m committed to doing one destination run every year. 😄 “In May, I will take part in a half-marathon 21-kilometre run in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand, alongside friends from my running club, @goodtimesrunningclub ❤️ “I’m also raising funds and awareness for PCFA, because they really do make sure that no man and their family ever has to walk alone when dealing with prostate cancer. This year, I hope to raise $2026. 🙂 “To other blokes out there: You service your car every year, so why wouldn’t you do the same for your health?” 😉 Pete, your journey is a powerful reminder that prostate cancer doesn’t have to define you. 💙 In Pete's words, it can help power you forward. 💪 Thank you for being a champ. 😊