Gayle Anderson

“In 2006, I had a routine medical exam upon returning from a volunteer mission to the Cook Islands.  My doctor found a lump in my neck and within moments my life plans of going on another mission were put on hold - I had been diagnosed with thyroid cancer. My entire thyroid gland was removed and I underwent radioiodine treatment. I was told that I would have to wait the magical 5 years to hear the news “you are healthy” but I am confident of this happening. It was hearing those horrible words, “you have cancer” that made me want to do something meaningful. I had already written a Will however, after my diagnosis I revised it to include a bequest to the Cancer Council.  I also became a volunteer with the Cancer Council Supporters Hotline. My personal battle with cancer made me realise just how short life is.  I have learned to live in the present; the past has already been and the future is unknown. I guess that is why they call it the present - because it is a gift.  And as a cancer survivor, I want to give a gift that will help others.”

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