Junior’s journey with cancer began unexpectedly while he was working out at the gym. Initially, he thought it was a minor sports injury, but as his leg continued to swell and a lump the size of a golf ball appeared behind his knee, he realised it was something more serious. With encouragement from his wife, Junior sought medical attention which led to the diagnosis of stage 3 extra-skeletal osteosarcoma on March 31st.
Junior went on to complete five weeks of radiation therapy. However, throughout this period he could feel the tumour getting bigger. Midway through treatment, he learned that the tumour had not shrunk but had doubled in size. “I was scared, really scared,” he admits, grappling with the uncertainty of his future.
Finally, after weeks of waiting, Junior underwent surgery. His incredible surgeon successfully removed the 4kg tumour and a significant portion of muscle mass. “I woke up crying,” Junior recalls, overwhelmed by the enormity of the procedure and feeling a profound sense of gratitude for the chance to continue fighting. “It’s been a hell of a battle,” he reflects, acknowledging the physical and emotional toll of his journey.
As a dedicated fireman, Junior shares, “I’ve seen a lot of death in my job, death doesn’t faze me. But when it’s yourself, nothing could prepare me for that. I never thought it was my time when I got diagnosed. I’ve lost a lot of friends who have gone too soon as well.”
Throughout his treatment journey, Junior leaned on the support of his loved ones, including his wife, two children and firefighting family. “I’ve got a fantastic support group from my work,” he shares. Their willingness to show up, even when he resisted, speaks volumes and demonstrates the true meaning of brotherhood, standing by his side through every stage of his cancer journey. Their unwavering support lifted his spirits and gave him the courage to face each day with renewed determination.
“They were there every day in the firetrucks, parked out on the street. They would just drop around coffee and keep me company. They would support my family and watch over me. They’d even carry me from my bedroom to the lounge” Junior shares. “It’s a family you know, a pretty strong one.” Their presence was a constant source of strength and comfort for Junior and his family, reminding them that they were not alone.
Junior’s battle with cancer was also marked by the unwavering support of an incredible medical team. Junior is eternally grateful for the care of the medical professionals at Middlemore Hospital. Their expertise and compassionate care provided Junior with the strength to face each day with hope. “They were just amazing, I have no words for what they did for me” he affirms.
As Junior continued his journey toward recovery, he found solace in familiar routines and new aspirations. “I’ve got two children, my son just got married recently last month. Yeah. So I was really happy to see them.” Returning to the gym and regaining a daily routine marked a turning point for Junior. “Going to the gym, going back to work, putting on my uniform,” he remarked. “It’s changing my mindset, you know, I’m ready to go now.” Junior also acknowledged the support of his workmate, who dedicates his days off to join him at the gym, giving him the motivation and support he needs to keep pushing forward.
Prior to his cancer diagnosis, Junior had been an avid runner, and he is determined to reclaim that part of himself. “I used to be a really huge runner. I miss that, I miss the sweat,” he admitted. “That’s my goal next year—to do the North Shore coast to coast.”
“It feels brilliant when I’m training,” he confessed. “The first few weeks were hard. Really hard. But I had to show up.”
Through everything, Junior remained humble, acknowledging the support of his loved ones and the lessons he had learned along the way. “I’m just grateful,” he said. “I appreciate everything that they do for me. I’ve just got to remind myself that it’s not about me anymore. It’s about my family and my mates.”
His journey had taught him valuable lessons about the fragility of life and the importance of connection. “It was an injury that turned into a cancer, and I realised that life is so short. Tell your people that you love them.”
Junior also found comfort in cancer podcasts and connecting with another man from New Zealand who shared the exact same diagnosis to him. “He’s become a really good mate of mine now.”
“I’m grateful I’m able to share my story because I’m sure there are a few others out there that are in our position,” he reflected. “They’re scared as hell. If I can help comfort somebody, then good.”
As Junior looked ahead to the future, he did so with optimism and determination. His journey with cancer had tested his strength and resilience, but it had also reaffirmed his faith in the power of community and the human spirit. With each step forward, he carries with him the lessons learned and the unwavering support of those who had stood by his side.