In 2020, Michael was diagnosed with prostate cancer. After a biopsy, his urologist told him it needed to be removed immediately. “It had to be removed now,” he recalls. Surgery went ahead, and with it came a cautious hope. But within a year, his PSA levels began doubling every three months, and it became clear the cancer had already spread, in his case to his spine and pubic bone.
“It was obvious that it had spread before it was removed,” he says simply.
Treatment options were placed in front of him: chemotherapy, radium, or hormone therapy. Michael chose hormone treatment, knowing it came with side effects, particularly muscle wastage. Exercise was no longer optional; it was essential.
He began attending a gym in town, but when that service ceased, he heard about COUCH Cancer Hub NQ (then COUCH Wellness Centre) through the Icon Cancer Centre and his oncologist. “So I came out here, and I haven’t looked back since.”
For the past four years, Michael has visited the hub three times a week, attending two gym sessions and a strength and balance class. He has also accessed oncology massage and osteopathy support, particularly important after spinal fusion surgery in his lower back.
“My body’s been through a bit,” he says with a wry smile.
But what keeps him coming back isn’t just the exercise.
“I absolutely enjoy coming here. It’s the camaraderie, mingling with other people. Everyone has a story to tell. You feel at home. It’s like a little family.”
At 82, Michael radiates warmth and vitality. “I don’t feel at all 82 years old,” he laughs. He credits the structured, tailored exercise programs for helping him maintain his strength and vitality. “You go through your physical exercises at your pace, and they modify it on the days when you don’t feel up to it. Otherwise, you feel really great, you do a bit more.”
As Michael prepares to return to the Gold Coast, he reflects on four years at the hub and a life full of experiences, from managing hotels along the Great Barrier Reef to playing in rock bands. His journey with prostate cancer has brought challenges, but also strength, connection, and laughter.