Peter Kroon - The Soul Walk

Peter Kroon discovered what he thought was a tiny cancer on his right eyebrow. He consulted his GP, who confirmed it was a skin cancer and referred him to his local hospital - who assessed him as a Priority One case, which meant he should have received attention within 14 days. Instead, it took 191 days for them to operate, and the cancer had grown to the size of a golfball. In the 10-hour surgery that followed, Peter lost most of one side of his face, including part of his skull. He lost a huge amount of weight, was left in tremendous pain and had over 20 subsequent surgeries to try and repair his face. Peter was unable to return to his work as a roofer because he had lost his sense of balance. Because his work hours were reduced, his compensation was limited: he received just $131,000 compensation, and $400 a week after tax to live off. Unable to work or afford his own home, Peter bought a mobile home, which he now lives in. However, Peter has refused to be beaten by the cancer and this year plans to walk the Te Araroa Trail, a walking path which stretches the length of New Zealand. He hopes the walk will raise awareness for the Cancer Society and for his own story. Any funds raised will be split equally between the Cancer Society and raising funds for Peter's own future. You can read Peter's full story on Stuff: https://interactives.stuff.co.nz/2019/01/the-man-whose-time-is-up/