David participated in the ABC Study after encouragement from his wife, Sue, who took part in 2016. Both David’s sister-in-law and brother were diagnosed with cancer, as was Sue’s best friend. They also know several people in their small, tightly-knit community who have been affected by the disease.

David was motivated to take part, not only due to his wife’s encouragement, but because he wanted to take some action against the “cruel reality of this cruel disease.” He hopes the study will lead to the next breakthroughs in preventing and treating the disease.

David found that participating in the study was quite straightforward and he has since encouraged others to sign up. He realises that men are often not proactive about their own health, but he hopes they can be proactive in contributing this way.

Sue is a long-time volunteer for the Cancer Council Victoria. She began her involvement in 2000 by participating in her local Relay for Life (La Trobe). Since 2011 she has served on the Victoria Advisory Committee for Relay for Life and in 2012 became the chairperson for the La Trobe Relay for Life.

David and Sue were recently interviewed by their local WIN News about their participation in the study. Several locals recognised them and have spoken to them about it since it aired.

Thanks to David and Sue for sharing your story. Read more stories and share your own!