Like many active 17 year olds, James loved his sport. If he wasn’t out riding his bike, he could be found out on the cricket pitch or playing soccer.
During his final year of school, James began experiencing pain in his knee. Over the next few months, it only got worse.
One day during a game of soccer, a mistimed tackle caused his and an opponent player’s knees to collide at high speed - he knew he’d been hurt pretty bad. He was taken to hospital where a scan unearthed not just a broken leg, but a diagnosis of fibro sarcoma.
James during his cancer treatment
“At first I didn’t understand what having a tumor in my knee meant and didn’t want to. The thought of losing my knee I was not ready for. I was also devastated that I shouldn’t play contact sport again.”
James immediately underwent four months of chemotherapy and multiple surgeries including a full knee replacement.
On top of the physical challenges James was enduring, he was struggling to keep up with his final year of school and was feeling left behind. Through Canteen James was able to access counselling and financial support. He has attended drop-in sessions with other young people going through their own cancer experiences, and participated in Canteen's support programs.
“A lot of the day programs have been really good, especially the brunches as they’re always at a convenient time and are a great way to meet people. The friendliness and support of everyone, including staff has kept me coming back.”
Group activities in particular helped James build strong connections and begin to rebuild his sense of self and dive into new hobbies like camping, driving and hitting the gym.
“Being involved with Canteen has definitely changed me. It’s opened my eyes to the community of young people dealing with cancer in their lives. It’s given me confidence knowing there are so many people who understand.”
