Mark hails from Australia and is one of our new Board members. He as been a cancer advocate in Australia for over 15 years.

Since I was diagnosed with Stage 4A Hodgkin’s in 2009 at 17 I have been heavily involved with advocacy work and while the health has had its ups and downs, it has given me more than it has taken. I have been lucky to be involved with so many incredible groups and projects. I have had the privilege of traveling the world to speak about my experiences.

What have you learned from Hodgkin’s International that you didn’t know before? 

After 15 years involved with cancer advocacy, I am always keeping an eye out for good news stories and stumbling across Hodgkin’s International has certainly been one of them. A major thing I have learned is that there are so many of us undergoing challenges on our survivorship journeys, but we are not alone and hearing people’s stories whether they be from down the street or on the other side of the world, it is inspiring and enlightening.

What’s one thing you wish more doctors understood about survivorship?

I have been incredibly lucky to have great medical care from day one. I do think there is opportunities in the space of survivorship. Recognizing what is directly cancer related, what might be distantly related and what is normal general practice healthcare. I am passionate about survivorship care which includes long term issues like fertility and follow up care for other conditions.

Who or what has been your biggest support on this journey? 

My family and friends were amazing at the time of treatment and remain an important part of my life. My wife has seen my life as a passionate advocate and supports me each and every day. The cancer community has taught me so much and my advocacy work has shaped the person I am today, I have met patients and healthcare professionals from Leeds, UK, to Botswana, Africa, to Michigan, USA, to Montreal, Canada (to name just a few). I am so lucky to be given the opportunities as a consumer advocate, and it gives me so much motivation and drive each and every day.