Emma Procter

I was 28 years old when I got the call from my dad. His sore hand wouldn’t heal properly, and his chest infection wouldn’t go away. His doctor had connected the dots and had sent him to have a scan; it might be cancer.

A week later, I sat in a room with my dad, mother, and an oncologist. I don't remember much other than hearing 'stage IV non-small cell lung cancer.' The prognosis was about five months to live.

Despite the shock and trauma, Dad was determined to be at my wedding in six months. So, like he did with any project, he dived into understanding and researching his diagnosis. He read scientific books and research papers, talked to experts, and explored the impact of food, stress, and lifestyle factors on cancer cells. His natural curiosity and intellect served him well, and he walked me down the aisle.

Over time, he developed an in-depth understanding of his cancer. It was remarkable to watch. It gave Dad control and gave those around him inspiration and pride. He knew what his options were in terms of treatments. He had chemotherapy and radiotherapy (multiple times), had PET scans every three months, took gene-targeted drugs, and radically changed his lifestyle. Despite having terminal cancer, he was genuinely thriving. Later in his journey, he met Dr Swee Tan. Initially making acquaintance professionally but soon becoming friends as Dad increasingly became a supporter of Dr Tan.

Dad's initial prognosis of five months had long been defied. No one expected him to live for almost eight years after diagnosis that he did.

Dad not only saw my wedding and both of my brothers, but he also met his first four grandchildren and was able to give his family one last gift - incredible leadership, courage, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity.

In Dad’s curiosity for treatment options, he became a motivated supporter of the aspirational and innovative research at Gillies McIndoe. He was a significant gatherer of financial support needed to move to a purpose- built facility in Newtown, which will be celebrating 10 years in February 2024.

For me, the most inspiring principle of Gillies McIndoe's work is repurposing readily available drugs that already exist. They want to make cancer treatment less invasive, more effective, affordable, and accessible. Their goals are simple and noble: reduce human suffering and improve lives. If anyone has been through or witnessed the impact of those treatments, they will realise how profound this is.

In honour of my amazing father, Rob Cameron, and support of a cause I feel truly passionate about, I am honoured to be a second-generation Gillies McIndoe Research Institute Ambassador.