Luke Hughes, 26, Raglan.
Growing up in Raglan, New Zealand, I have lived a life around the ocean, but specifically surfing and my family. Our choice amongst surfing is not just as a sport, but a way of living. My whole family are all attached in this way, and owe it all to one person, our late Father.
At the age of 14 my Father crafted his first surfboard, and noticed a unique skill set that allowed him to turn a passion and interest into a career, a career that spanned 44 years. At the age of 50, he was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and although rocked and affected, his determination and love for family found him continuing to work and support us. For the next 8 years he fought his own battle, and it was during this time, that I myself experienced the affect and issues surrounding cancer, and what those that are diagnosed with it have to go through.
Because of my first hand experiences I find myself in a scenario where I have an insight to not only understand those that are diagnosed, but also with the scenario to help.